Orthopedic Surgery · Tijuana, Mexico
Joint Replacement & Orthopedic Surgery: Restore Your Mobility
Knee replacement, hip replacement, ACL repair, and spine procedures — performed by board-certified orthopedic surgeons at Russald Medical Center in Tijuana, Mexico. Same surgical standards as leading US centers. A fraction of the cost.
Medically reviewed by Russald Medical Center — April 25, 2026
Orthopedics & Spine
Restoring Mobility Without the US Price Tag
Joint replacement and orthopedic surgery represent some of the largest cost disparities in US healthcare. A knee replacement that costs $35,000–$70,000 in the United States can be performed at Russald Medical Center in Tijuana for a fraction of that: with the same implant manufacturers, the same minimally invasive techniques, and a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with subspecialty training in joint replacement.
We treat patients with severe osteoarthritis, joint degeneration, sports injuries, and spinal conditions who are ready to stop managing pain and reclaim their mobility. Our orthopedic team evaluates candidacy carefully — including imaging review and medical clearance — before any procedure is scheduled.
Recovery coordination is included: our team provides physical therapy referrals, discharge instructions, and remote follow-up so you return home with a clear plan.
Commonly Treated Conditions
Severe osteoarthritis of the knee or hip requiring joint replacement
ACL, MCL, or meniscus injury requiring surgical repair
Chronic shoulder instability or rotator cuff pathology
Degenerative disc disease or herniated disc requiring spine intervention
Post-fracture reconstruction or hardware removal
Bilateral joint cases (both knees or both hips) in a single visit
All procedures require a clinical evaluation to determine candidacy. The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Why Russald Medical Center
Why Choose Russald for Orthopedics & Spine?
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeons
Subspecialty training in joint replacement and sports medicine. Our surgeons use the same prosthetic implant systems trusted by leading US orthopedic centers.
60–75% Below US Hospital Pricing
Knee and hip replacement in the US routinely exceed $40,000–$70,000. At Russald, the same procedure with the same implant class costs dramatically less — with no insurance maze to navigate.
Pre-Op Imaging & Clearance Required
X-rays, MRI review, and medical clearance are part of the evaluation process. We do not schedule joint replacement without understanding your anatomy and baseline health.
Bilateral Cases Accepted
Many US hospitals require separate admissions for bilateral procedures. We evaluate bilateral knee and hip replacement in a single trip where clinically appropriate, saving time and travel cost.
Physical Therapy Coordination
Post-operative physical therapy protocols are provided. Our team can coordinate referrals to PT providers in your home city to ensure continuity of rehabilitation.
Minutes from San Diego
Approximately 20 minutes from the San Diego border crossing. For US Southwest patients, orthopedic care at Russald requires no flight and minimal travel disruption.
Orthopedic Procedures
Available Orthopedic & Spine Procedures
Each procedure page includes full clinical information, candidacy criteria, the step-by-step process, recovery timeline, pricing context, and answers to the most common patient questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthopedic Surgery in Tijuana — Common Questions
How much does orthopedic surgery cost in Tijuana, Mexico?
Orthopedic procedures at Russald Medical Center cost 60–75% less than comparable US facilities. Knee or hip replacement, which can exceed $40,000–$70,000 in the US, is available at a fraction of that cost. Contact our team for a procedure-specific quote.
Is it safe to get a knee or hip replacement in Tijuana, Mexico?
Joint replacement safety depends on the surgical team, the implant, and the facility — not the destination. At Russald Medical Center, knee and hip replacements are performed by board-certified orthopedic surgeons in an accredited surgical suite with anesthesiology on site; the implant brand is confirmed during your evaluation. Tijuana sits about 20 minutes from the San Diego border, which keeps in-person follow-up accessible for U.S. patients. A pre-operative evaluation — including your imaging — is required before surgery is approved; candidacy and expected outcomes are assessed individually, and, as with any major surgery, the risks are reviewed with you beforehand. You receive structured physical-therapy instructions for recovery, and an English-speaking coordinator manages your case from first contact through post-operative follow-up.
What implants are used for joint replacement in Mexico?
Russald Medical Center uses quality orthopedic implants from established manufacturers — the same implant systems used in leading US orthopedic centers. Implant selection is discussed during your pre-operative consultation.
Do I need to bring imaging from the US before my visit?
Yes. Recent X-rays and MRI studies (within 6–12 months where possible) allow our team to assess your anatomy before travel. If local imaging is needed, we can coordinate it upon arrival.
Can I have bilateral joint replacement (both knees or both hips) in one trip?
Bilateral procedures are evaluated individually based on your overall health, surgical risk, and clinical indicators. Simultaneous bilateral replacement is accepted where appropriate, which can save a second trip and recovery period.
How long do I need to stay in Tijuana after joint replacement surgery?
Most joint replacement patients remain in Tijuana for 3–5 days post-operatively before being cleared to travel. Arthroscopic procedures (ACL, meniscus, rotator cuff) typically require 2–3 days.
Will I receive physical therapy instructions after orthopedic surgery?
Yes. All orthopedic patients receive a structured home exercise and rehabilitation program before discharge. We can also coordinate referrals to physical therapy providers in your home city.
Is the border crossing safe with orthopedic surgery restrictions?
Yes. Most patients are discharged with the ability to walk with assistance and can be transported by a companion or private shuttle. Our team coordinates discharge timing and provides guidance on safe border transit.
No Commitment Required
Request Your Free Medical Evaluation
Our team reviews your case individually: connecting you with the right specialist at no cost and with no obligation to proceed.
Pre-approval path: submit your profile and receive a pre-approval decision
Response within 1 business day: often same day
Fully confidential: your information is never shared
Minutes from San Diego: no flights, no long trips
English-speaking team handles your case from start to finish
Transparent pricing: receive a personalized cost breakdown
Tell us about you
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