Knee Replacement Surgery in Bristol

What is Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement (knee arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure in which damaged or worn surfaces of the knee joint are replaced with artificial implants. It is one of the most successful operations in modern medicine, with over 100,000 knee replacements performed in the UK each year.

Knee replacement is most commonly performed for osteoarthritis — the “wear and tear” form of arthritis — when non-operative treatments are no longer providing adequate relief.

Types of Knee Replacement

Total Knee Replacement

In a total knee replacement, all three compartments of the knee joint are resurfaced. This is the most common type of knee replacement and is suitable for patients with widespread arthritis throughout the knee.

Partial (Unicompartmental) Knee Replacement

When arthritis is confined to one part of the knee, a partial knee replacement may be an option. This is a less invasive procedure with a faster recovery, preserving the healthy parts of the knee.

Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

Robotic-assisted technology allows your surgeon to plan your operation using a detailed 3D model of your knee, achieving highly accurate implant positioning tailored to your individual anatomy. This may lead to improved implant alignment, better knee function, and longer implant life.

When is Knee Replacement Recommended?

Your surgeon may recommend knee replacement when:

• Knee pain significantly limits your daily activities (walking, stairs, getting out of a chair)
• Pain persists at rest or disturbs your sleep
• The knee is stiff, swollen, or deformed
• Non-operative treatments (physiotherapy, injections, painkillers) are no longer effective
• X-rays show significant joint space narrowing or bone-on-bone arthritis

What to Expect

Before Surgery

You will have a full pre-operative assessment and the opportunity to discuss your goals with your surgeon. Many patients benefit from “prehabilitation” — physiotherapy and exercises before surgery to optimise strength and recovery.

The Operation

Knee replacement surgery typically takes 60–90 minutes. It is usually performed under spinal anaesthesia with sedation. Most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights.

Recovery

• Day 1: Up and walking with physiotherapy support
• Week 1–6: Progressive mobilisation, increasing walking distance
• Month 3: Most daily activities resumed; driving typically possible by 6 weeks
• Month 6–12: Continued improvement in strength and function
• Long term: Modern knee replacements are expected to last 20–25 years or more

Why Choose Foundry for Knee Replacement in Bristol?

Our knee replacement surgeons in Bristol are fellowship-trained specialists who perform high volumes of knee replacement surgery each year. We offer the latest techniques including robotic-assisted surgery for enhanced precision.

All procedures are carried out at Bristol’s leading private hospitals with dedicated joint replacement facilities, specialist nursing teams, and on-site physiotherapy.