Joint Replacement
Overview
Joint replacement is a surgical procedure used to treat severe joint damage, most commonly affecting the hip or knee. If you are advised to have this procedure, it is usually because pain and reduced movement are significantly affecting your daily activities and have not improved with other treatments.
The damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial implant designed to restore movement and reduce pain. This procedure is widely performed and can significantly improve quality of life, helping you return to daily activities with greater comfort and stability.
When It's Needed
You may need joint replacement if you have:
- Severe joint pain affecting daily activities
- Joint damage not responding to other treatments
- Reduced mobility or stiffness
- Advanced joint degeneration
How It's Performed
The procedure is performed under general or regional anaesthesia. It involves:
- Removing the damaged parts of the joint
- Replacing them with an artificial implant
- Restoring alignment and movement
Your surgeon will select the appropriate implant and technique. The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours and usually requires a short hospital stay, followed by rehabilitation.
What to Expect
Recovery
Recovery takes longer than minor procedures and includes structured rehabilitation. Physiotherapy is essential to help restore strength, movement, and confidence in using the joint.
Your care team will guide you through each stage of recovery and monitor your progress.
Diagnostics & Tests
Before surgery, your condition may be assessed using:
These help determine the severity of the condition and guide treatment planning.
Support Services
You may receive support such as:
These help determine the severity of the condition and guide treatment planning.
Call our 24/7 emergency line immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain, fever, or signs of infection after the procedure
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding or sudden swelling