Knee Replacement Market Size & Forecast 2026–2034

Global Knee Replacement Market Outlook

The global knee replacement market is entering a phase of steady and sustained expansion, driven by demographic shifts, lifestyle changes, and continuous advancements in orthopedic technology. According to Renub Research, the knee replacement market is projected to grow from US$ 13.82 billion in 2025 to US$ 21.48 billion by 2034, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.02% during the forecast period from 2026 to 2034.

Knee replacement, clinically known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which damaged or worn components of the knee joint are replaced with artificial implants made from metal alloys, ceramics, and high-grade medical plastics. The procedure is primarily performed to alleviate chronic pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life in patients affected by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or severe knee injuries.

Over the past two decades, knee replacement surgery has evolved from being a last-resort intervention to a widely accepted and highly effective treatment option. Innovations in implant design, minimally invasive surgical approaches, and robotic-assisted systems have significantly enhanced clinical outcomes and reduced recovery times. As a result, patient acceptance has increased across both developed and emerging healthcare markets.

Growth Drivers in the Knee Replacement Market

Rising Prevalence of Osteoarthritis and Joint Disorders

The increasing global burden of osteoarthritis (OA) remains the most influential driver of the knee replacement market. In 2019, an estimated 528 million people worldwide were living with osteoarthritis, representing a 113% increase since 1990. Among all musculoskeletal disorders, OA accounts for approximately 50% of cases, with knee osteoarthritis being the most common and debilitating form.

Aging populations are particularly vulnerable to cartilage degeneration, joint stiffness, and chronic pain, making surgical intervention inevitable in advanced stages. Rising obesity rates further accelerate knee joint deterioration by increasing mechanical stress, while sports injuries and post-traumatic arthritis are contributing to knee degeneration among younger demographics. As conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and injections lose effectiveness in advanced disease stages, knee replacement surgery is increasingly viewed as a definitive solution.

Advancements in Implant Design and Surgical Technology

Technological innovation has fundamentally reshaped the knee replacement landscape. Modern implants offer superior anatomical alignment, enhanced biocompatibility, and extended durability, allowing patients to maintain joint function for decades. Advances in polyethylene materials have significantly reduced wear rates, lowering the risk of implant failure and revision surgery.

Robotic-assisted knee replacement and computer-guided navigation systems are improving surgical accuracy and consistency. These technologies enable precise bone cuts, optimal implant positioning, and personalized surgical planning, leading to better long-term outcomes. Minimally invasive approaches have further reduced blood loss, shortened hospital stays, and accelerated rehabilitation.

In December 2025, Even Healthcare successfully completed its first robotic knee replacement surgery at its newly launched hospital in Bengaluru, highlighting the rapid adoption of technology-enabled orthopedic care models in emerging markets.

Growing Demand for Improved Mobility and Quality of Life

Patients today are increasingly focused on maintaining independence, physical activity, and mobility well into older age. Knee replacement surgery is no longer perceived solely as a pain-relief procedure but as a life-enhancing intervention that enables continued participation in daily and recreational activities.

Improved surgical success rates, shorter recovery periods, and comprehensive rehabilitation programs have strengthened patient confidence. In parallel, rising awareness through healthcare providers, digital platforms, and patient education initiatives is accelerating procedural uptake. Expanding access to orthopedic care and the growth of medical tourism in developing economies are further supporting market expansion.

Key Challenges Facing the Knee Replacement Market

High Cost of Surgery and Limited Accessibility

Despite strong demand, the high cost of knee replacement surgery remains a major barrier, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Expenses related to implants, hospital infrastructure, skilled surgical teams, and post-operative rehabilitation limit accessibility for many patients. Even in developed markets, reimbursement limitations and insurance coverage gaps can delay treatment.

Public healthcare systems often face long waiting times due to budget constraints, affecting patient outcomes and satisfaction. Addressing cost pressures and improving affordability will remain a critical challenge for market stakeholders.

Surgical Risks and Post-Operative Complications

Although outcomes have improved significantly, knee replacement surgery is not without risks. Potential complications include infection, implant loosening, blood clots, stiffness, and limited range of motion. In some cases, patients may require revision surgery, which is more complex and costly than primary procedures.

Clinical outcomes can vary based on patient health, surgeon experience, and implant quality. Ensuring consistent results and minimizing complications remain ongoing priorities for healthcare providers and manufacturers.

Market Segmentation Analysis

Partial Knee Replacement Market

Partial knee replacement involves resurfacing only the damaged compartment of the knee, preserving healthy bone and ligaments. This procedure is gaining popularity due to its minimally invasive nature, reduced recovery time, and more natural joint movement. Advances in imaging and robotic guidance have enhanced surgical precision, increasing surgeon confidence and patient outcomes. Demand is particularly strong among younger and active patients with localized osteoarthritis.

Revision Knee Replacement Market

The revision knee replacement segment is expanding steadily as the volume of primary procedures increases worldwide. Implant wear, mechanical failure, infection, and loosening are key drivers of revision surgeries. These procedures require specialized implants and advanced surgical expertise. Innovations in modular implant systems and fixation techniques are improving outcomes, supporting long-term growth in this segment.

Fixed Bearing Knee Replacement Market

Fixed bearing implants remain the most widely used knee replacement systems due to their durability, cost-effectiveness, and proven clinical performance. These implants are particularly suitable for older or less active patients. Continuous improvements in implant geometry and polyethylene materials have enhanced longevity, ensuring sustained demand globally.

Mobile Bearing Knee Replacement Market

Mobile bearing implants allow controlled rotation of the polyethylene insert, closely mimicking natural knee movement and reducing wear. While these systems require greater surgical precision and are more expensive, they offer advantages for younger and more active patients. Growing emphasis on personalized orthopedic solutions is supporting adoption in this segment.

End-User Insights

Hospitals

Hospitals dominate the knee replacement market due to their advanced infrastructure, multidisciplinary surgical teams, and ability to manage complex and revision cases. Access to robotic systems, imaging technologies, and comprehensive post-operative care reinforces hospital leadership in procedure volumes.

Orthopedic Clinics and Ambulatory Centers

Orthopedic clinics and ambulatory surgery centers are gaining traction for elective and minimally invasive knee replacement procedures. Shorter wait times, lower costs, and specialized care models are attracting patients, particularly in urban areas. Advances in outpatient surgery protocols are supporting growth in this segment.

Regional Market Highlights

United States

The United States remains the largest and most technologically advanced knee replacement market globally. High osteoarthritis prevalence, rising obesity rates, and strong healthcare infrastructure drive demand. The country leads in robotic-assisted surgery adoption and patient-specific implants. In April 2025, THINK Surgical, Inc. announced the first use of Maxx Orthopedics’ Freedom Total Knee implant with the TMINI® Miniature Robotic System in Florida.

United Kingdom

The UK knee replacement market is supported by the National Health Service (NHS), which provides widespread access to orthopedic care. Aging demographics and technological advancements continue to drive procedure volumes. However, long waiting lists have increased reliance on private healthcare providers. In June 2025, Johnson & Johnson MedTech announced the first European cases of the VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty.

China

China represents one of the fastest-growing knee replacement markets due to its aging population and expanding healthcare infrastructure. Government reforms, increased insurance coverage, and domestic manufacturing are improving affordability. In July 2023, Beijing Tinavi Medical Technologies received regulatory approval for its Tirobot Recon system for total knee replacement.

Brazil and UAE

Brazil’s market growth is supported by private healthcare expansion, though access disparities persist. The UAE continues to benefit from advanced infrastructure, medical tourism, and government investment, positioning itself as a regional orthopedic care hub.

Competitive Landscape

Key players operating in the global knee replacement market include:

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

Stryker Corporation

Smith & Nephew PLC

Johnson & Johnson

Conformis Inc.

Integra LifeSciences Corporation

MicroPort Scientific Corporation

B. Braun Melsungen AG

All companies are evaluated across five viewpoints: overview, key personnel, recent developments, SWOT analysis, and revenue analysis.

Final Thoughts

The global knee replacement market is on a stable growth trajectory, supported by rising osteoarthritis prevalence, aging populations, and rapid technological innovation. While cost and access challenges persist, advancements in robotic surgery, implant materials, and minimally invasive techniques continue to improve outcomes and expand patient eligibility.

As healthcare systems worldwide prioritize mobility, independence, and healthy aging, knee replacement surgery will remain a cornerstone of modern orthopedic care. With expanding adoption across developed and emerging markets, the industry is well positioned for sustained growth through 2034.