Knee Replacement Surgery in Sydney
Patient information • Last reviewed August 2026
Knee replacement surgery is an option for some people with advanced knee arthritis when pain, stiffness or loss of function continue despite appropriate non-operative treatment. The decision to proceed with surgery is individual: X-rays are important, but the severity of symptoms, the effect on everyday life, general health and treatment goals all matter.
When might knee replacement be considered?
Most people are assessed for knee replacement because arthritis has begun to substantially interfere with walking, stairs, sleep, work, exercise or other normal activities. Before recommending surgery, I consider the diagnosis, the pattern and severity of arthritis, previous treatment, the condition of the surrounding ligaments and muscles, and your general medical health.
Non-operative treatment may include activity modification, exercise and physiotherapy, weight management where appropriate, simple pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication when medically suitable, and in selected cases injections. Surgery is generally considered when these measures no longer provide acceptable symptom control.
Total or partial knee replacement?
A total knee replacement resurfaces the damaged joint surfaces of the femur and tibia with metal components separated by a highly engineered plastic bearing. It is most commonly used when arthritis affects more than one part of the knee.
Total knee replacement
Partial knee replacement
For appropriately selected patients, only the affected compartment of the knee is resurfaced.
A partial knee replacement replaces only the affected compartment of the knee. In appropriately selected patients, a medial unicompartmental replacement can preserve the unaffected compartments of the knee. Partial replacement may be appropriate for a smaller group of patients whose arthritis is confined to one part of the joint and whose ligaments and remaining joint surfaces are suitable. The choice between partial and total replacement is made after clinical examination and imaging rather than from age alone.
Assessment and planning
Your consultation includes a discussion of symptoms and goals, examination of the knee and review of appropriate imaging. The aim is to confirm that the knee joint is the main source of symptoms and to determine which treatment options are reasonable.
Pre-operative planning also considers medical conditions, medications, smoking, diabetes, anaemia and other factors that can influence recovery or the risk of complications. Where necessary, these issues are addressed with your general practitioner, physician or other treating specialists before surgery.
Technology in knee replacement
Modern knee replacement can involve computer-assisted navigation, advanced pre-operative planning and patient-specific technology.
In selected patients, I use customised total knee replacement implants designed specifically for the individual knee. Pre-operative imaging is used to create a three-dimensional model, allowing the implant to be designed to reflect the patient's native bony anatomy rather than relying solely on standardised implant sizes.
I also use computer-assisted navigation and other planning technologies where I believe they can assist accurate planning and component positioning. These technologies are tools within the overall surgical process and do not replace careful patient selection, surgical technique, rehabilitation or realistic expectations about recovery.
What does recovery involve?
Mobilisation usually begins soon after surgery, with physiotherapy focused on walking, knee movement and muscle function. Pain and swelling are expected early in recovery and generally improve progressively. Recovery varies considerably between individuals, and progress is better judged over weeks and months than from one day to the next.
Returning to driving, work and recreational activities depends on which knee has been operated on, strength and control of the leg, medication use, the physical demands of work, and individual progress. These milestones are discussed during follow-up rather than being based on a single timetable for every patient.
Risks and possible complications
All surgery has risks. Important risks of knee replacement include infection, blood clots, bleeding, stiffness, persistent pain, wound problems, injury to nerves or blood vessels, medical complications, fracture, implant wear or loosening, and the possibility of further surgery. Some complications are uncommon but potentially serious.
Before surgery, the expected benefits and relevant risks are discussed in the context of your own health and circumstances so that you can make an informed decision.
Revision knee replacement
A knee replacement may occasionally require further surgery because of problems such as infection, loosening, wear, instability, stiffness, fracture or persistent symptoms. Revision knee replacement is usually more complex than a first knee replacement and may require specialised implants, additional imaging and a different surgical plan.
I have a particular interest in both primary and revision knee replacement surgery.
Making a decision
The purpose of a consultation is not simply to decide whether you need an operation. It is to establish the cause of your symptoms, discuss reasonable treatment options and help you decide which approach best fits your circumstances and goals.
Consultations
I consult at Westmead Private Hospital, Lakeview Private Hospital and Rouse Hill Orthopaedics. To arrange an appointment, please contact the practice on 02 9051 2424 or email admin@mattjonesortho.com.au.
Further information
For general patient information about knee replacement, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons provides a detailed overview through OrthoInfo: Total Knee Replacement.
Important: This page provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Treatment recommendations depend on examination, imaging, medical history and personal circumstances.