Knee replacement: cost, NHS wait & what to expect

Overview

A knee replacement is surgery to replace a worn or damaged knee joint with an artificial one (a prosthesis). It is most often done for severe arthritis when pain and stiffness limit everyday activities.

Why it's done

• Severe knee arthritis with pain that disturbs sleep or daily life
• Stiffness and reduced mobility not helped by other treatments
• A knee deformity affecting how you walk

What happens

Done under general or spinal anaesthetic, usually with a 1–3 night hospital stay. The surgeon removes the damaged joint surfaces and fits metal and plastic components. Most people start walking with support the same or next day.

Recovery

• Walking aids for a few weeks
• Physiotherapy is essential for a good result
• Driving often after about 6 weeks
• Fuller recovery over 3–6 months

Risks & things to consider

• Infection
• Blood clots (DVT/PE)
• Ongoing pain or stiffness in some people
• Wear of the implant over many years
• Anaesthetic risks

Alternatives

• Physiotherapy and exercise
• Weight loss and activity changes
• Pain relief and steroid injections
• Partial (uni-compartmental) knee replacement in selected cases

Questions to ask your provider

• Am I a good candidate now, or should I wait?
• What does the all-in self-pay price include?
• How many knee replacements does the surgeon do each year?
• What implant do you use and why?