Knee replacement (knee arthroplasty) is one of the most reliable operations in modern orthopaedics. For people whose knee pain no longer responds to medicines, injections or physiotherapy, it can restore comfortable, independent movement.
Who may benefit
Your doctor may discuss knee replacement if you have advanced arthritis with persistent pain, stiffness, or difficulty walking and climbing stairs - especially when daily life and sleep are affected.
Before surgery
- A pre-anaesthetic check-up, blood tests and imaging to plan the procedure safely.
- Optimising blood sugar, blood pressure and any heart condition beforehand.
- Simple 'prehab' exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee.
During the procedure
The worn surfaces of the joint are replaced with smooth, durable implants. Surgery is usually done under spinal or general anaesthesia in a modular operation theatre, and most people stay in hospital for a few days.
Recovery and physiotherapy
Guided physiotherapy - often starting the day after surgery - is the single biggest factor in a good result.