Find answers to common questions about knee conditions, treatments, and what to expect.
I specialise in all knee conditions, including ACL injuries, meniscus tears, cartilage damage, patellofemoral disorders, ligament injuries, and degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. I offer both surgical and non-surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s specific needs and circumstances.
Yes, I treat both NHS and private patients. My NHS practice is based at Bristol Royal Infirmary and Southmead Hospital, whilst private consultations and procedures are held at Spire Bristol Hospital and Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital.
An initial consultation typically lasts between 20 to 30 minutes. This allows sufficient time to take a detailed medical history, perform a thorough physical examination of your knee, review any existing scans, and discuss potential treatment pathways.
Please bring any previous medical records, referral letters from your GP or physiotherapist, and copies of any relevant imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans. It is also helpful to wear loose-fitting clothing, such as shorts, to allow for an easy examination of your knee.
Surgery is usually considered when conservative treatments—such as physiotherapy, activity modification, or joint injections—have not provided adequate relief. If knee pain, stiffness, or instability is significantly impacting your quality of life, daily activities, or ability to play sports, surgical intervention may be recommended based on individual assessment.
Minimally invasive surgery, often referred to as keyhole surgery or arthroscopy, uses small incisions and specialised instruments equipped with a camera. This approach typically results in less tissue damage, reduced post-operative pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
The length of your hospital stay depends on the type of procedure. Many arthroscopic surgeries, such as meniscus repair or ACL reconstruction, are performed as day cases, meaning you can go home the same day. More extensive procedures, like a total knee replacement, typically require a hospital stay of one to three days.
Whilst modern knee surgery is generally very safe, all surgical procedures carry some degree of risk. Potential complications may include infection, bleeding, blood clots (DVT), stiffness, or nerve damage. I will discuss all specific risks relevant to your procedure in detail during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
Recovery from an ACL reconstruction is a gradual process. Most patients can walk without crutches within a few weeks and begin light jogging around three months. A full return to pivoting or contact sports typically takes between 9 to 12 months, supported by a dedicated and structured rehabilitation programme.
Yes, physiotherapy is a crucial component of recovery for almost all knee surgeries. A tailored rehabilitation programme helps to restore range of motion, rebuild muscle strength, and improve joint stability, ensuring you achieve the best possible long-term outcome from your treatment.
Your return to work depends on the nature of your job and the type of surgery performed. For desk-based roles, you may be able to return within one to two weeks following a minor procedure. For jobs requiring heavy lifting or prolonged standing, it may take several weeks or months. I will provide specific guidance based on your individual circumstances.
You should not drive until you have full control of your vehicle and can safely perform an emergency stop without pain or hesitation. For minor procedures, this may be as soon as one to two weeks. For more major surgeries, such as a knee replacement or surgery on your right leg, it may take up to six weeks. You must also check with your insurance provider.
Meniscus repair has a high success rate, particularly when the tear is located in the outer portion of the meniscus where there is a good blood supply. Success also depends on the patient’s age, the type of tear, and strict adherence to the post-operative rehabilitation protocol.
A standard knee arthroscopy is a relatively quick procedure, typically taking between 30 to 60 minutes depending on what needs to be done inside the joint. You will spend additional time in the recovery area before being discharged.
Cartilage restoration encompasses a range of advanced techniques designed to stimulate the growth of new cartilage or replace damaged cartilage in the knee. These procedures aim to relieve pain, improve function, and potentially delay the onset of osteoarthritis in younger, active patients.
Yes, I perform revision knee replacement surgery. This is a complex procedure required when an existing knee replacement has worn out, loosened, or failed. Revision surgery requires specialist expertise to safely remove the old implant and place a new one to restore joint function.
Yes, I am recognised by all major private medical insurance providers. It is important to contact your insurance company prior to your consultation to confirm your level of cover and obtain a pre-authorisation code for your appointment and any subsequent treatment.
If you do not have private medical insurance, you can choose to self-pay for your treatment. The private hospitals where I work offer fixed-price packages for consultations, diagnostics, and surgical procedures, providing clarity and peace of mind regarding costs.
No, I believe in complete transparency. For self-pay patients, you will be provided with a comprehensive, fixed-price quote prior to any treatment, which covers the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, hospital charges, and standard post-operative care. For insured patients, any potential shortfalls or excess will be dictated by your specific policy terms.
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