Frequently asked question

General information

No — you can self-refer. If you already have a referral or recent scans, please bring them with you.

Any recent X-rays, scans, clinic letters, and a list of your medications. This helps me make the most of our time together.

An initial consultation is £200, and follow-up appointments are £150. Most insurers cover these fees.

I see private patients at Nuffield Health Newcastle and also work as a Consultant within Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust.

Appointments are usually available within 1–2 weeks.

Knee Replacements

Most patients stay 1 nights in hospital, Thanks to enhanced recovery pathways, many patients go home the same day as surgery.

You can usually drive after 4–6 weeks, provided you can control the car safely and are no longer taking strong painkillers. You should also check with your insurance company.

This depends on your job. Office-based workers may return in 4–6 weeks. Manual or physically demanding roles may require 8–12 weeks or longer.

Some patients can kneel comfortably, while others find it difficult. It varies from person to person and does not affect the overall success of the replacement.

Modern implants are designed to last 15–20 years or more. Outcomes are best if you keep active, maintain a healthy weight, and follow rehabilitation guidance.

Most patients return to walking, swimming, cycling, golf, and low-impact exercise. High-impact sports (running, jumping, contact sports) are not recommended, but many people enjoy an active lifestyle with their new knee.

Hip Replacements

Most patients are in hospital for 1 night. Thanks to enhanced recovery programmes, some patients are discharged the same day as their surgery.

Usually after 4–6 weeks, once you can safely control the pedals. You should also check with your insurance company

Yes — most patients return to walking, golf, cycling, and swimming. High-impact sports (running, football) are not recommended.

Modern hip replacements last 15–20 years or more.

Robotic Assisted Surgery

No. The surgery is always performed by your consultant surgeon. The robot does not operate independently — it is a highly advanced tool that assists the surgeon, improving accuracy and control.

With the Stryker Mako system, a 3D plan of your joint is created before the operation. During surgery, the robotic arm guides the surgeon’s instruments within the exact plan, allowing millimetre-level precision. This can result in more accurate implant placement and potentially a more natural-feeling joint.

The incision is usually similar in size to traditional joint replacement. The main benefits are improved accuracy, less bone and soft-tissue damage, and better alignment of the implant. This can support a smoother recovery and longer-lasting results, although the overall rehabilitation process is similar.

Yes. The technology has been used in thousands of operations worldwide and is designed with multiple safety features. The surgeon remains in full control at all times.

Most patients needing a hip or knee replacement are eligible. Suitability depends on your joint condition, anatomy, and hospital facilities. This will be discussed during your consultation.

ACL Reconstruction & Other Ligament Injuries

Most patients use crutches for 2 weeks, depending on the ligament reconstructed. You may also need to wear a knee brace for a period of time depending on the nature of your surgery.

Return is usually 6–12 months after surgery, depending which ligaments have been reconstructed or repaired and recovery progress.

No. Some heal with physiotherapy and bracing. Surgery is advised when instability persists or for patients

Arthroscopy

Yes — most patients go home the same day.

Office work may be possible within a week; physical jobs usually require 3–4 weeks.

Yes, physiotherapy helps restore movement and strength after arthroscopy.

Patella Stabilisation

You will usually walk with crutches immediately, often in a brace for support.

Return to sport is generally 4–6 months, depending on rehab progress.

Yes — strengthening the thigh and hip muscles is essential to prevent recurrence.

Osteotomy

Most patients use crutches for 6–8 weeks after osteotomy.

Usually after 6–8 weeks, when weight-bearing and safe control have returned.

Osteotomy can delay knee replacement by 5–10 years or more in suitable patients.

Joint Injections

Variable. Can take days to weeks before benefit is felt.

Relief can last weeks or months, though this varies. Injections may be repeated if needed.

Most patients describe only mild discomfort. The procedure is quick and well-tolerated.