What Happens During Your Private Knee Replacement Surgery?
When you’re booked in for knee replacement surgery, it’s completely natural to feel anxious. Knowing what to expect on the day can make a big difference in helping you feel calm and confident.
Here’s what typically happens on the day of your operation, from hospital admission to waking up in recovery.
Admission to Hospital
You’ll be asked to arrive at the hospital at a set time, usually in the morning. Once you’re admitted, you’ll meet your consultant, your anaesthetist, and the nursing team. Your consent form will be reviewed again, and your surgical site will be marked as part of our safety checks. You’ll then be given a hospital gown and taken through final checks before heading to theatre.
Anaesthesia and Nerve Block Options
There are two main types of anaesthesia used for knee surgery. Most patients have a spinal anaesthetic, which numbs the lower half of your body, combined with sedation to help you relax. In some cases, a general anaesthetic is used, which means you’ll be fully asleep during the procedure.
Many patients also receive a nerve block, which helps to reduce pain for the first 24 hours after surgery. Your anaesthetist will go over all your options in advance and help you decide what’s best for you.
What Happens in Theatre
The operation itself usually lasts around one to two hours. Once you’re in theatre, the consultant will clean and prepare your knee area before making an incision. Damaged bone and cartilage are carefully removed, and a smooth metal and plastic implant is fixed into place to recreate the joint. The surgeon will check for proper alignment and movement before closing the incision with stitches or surgical glue.
Throughout the operation, the team uses precision techniques and sterile tools to ensure the procedure is as safe and accurate as possible.
Waking Up in Recovery
After surgery, you’ll be taken to the recovery area, where the nursing staff will monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing as you wake up. You might feel groggy or chilly at first, but this usually passes quickly. Most patients have a drip for fluids, and your leg will be bandaged with support to reduce swelling.
Some patients also wear a compression device on the legs to support circulation while resting.
Starting to Move
Your physiotherapist will see you either later the same day or the next morning. You’ll start with gentle movements, sitting upright and possibly standing with assistance. Early movement is important to reduce the risk of complications and to get your recovery off to the best possible start.
Even if you’re nervous about this stage, the team will guide and support you so everything feels safe and manageable.
Why Choose Our Hip Replacement Treatment?
We understand the urgency of your needs, and we commit to providing direct access to advanced treatments without any waiting lists.
Meet Our Surgeon
Dr. Hazem Hassouna
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Specialist in Hip and Knee Surgery | GMC Registered (No. 6070956)
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Hazem Hassouna specialises in hip and knee replacements, arthroscopy, and complex lower limb procedures. He is known for his precision, advanced training, and a patient-first approach to orthopaedic care.
Consultant Insight
This article was written by the Transform Medical team, based on real questions we hear every week in our consultations. We’ve worked closely with our orthopaedic and clinical care teams to make sure this reflects the concerns and decisions real patients face.