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Home / Procedures / Knee replacement

Knee replacement

Primary knee replacement surgery, including the option of Velys robotic-assisted knee surgery.

Overview

Precision matters in knee replacement.

Knee replacement is one of the most reliably successful operations in orthopaedic surgery. The goal is simple: relieve pain and restore function. Mr Barrow offers two pathways, a conventional primary total knee replacement, and, where appropriate, Velys robotic-assisted surgery.

Primary total knee replacement

This a treatment option for patients with end stage arthritis of the knee. The worn surfaces of the femur, tibia and kneecap are resurfaced with metal and polyethylene (plastic) components chosen for their durability and compatibility with an active lifestyle.

  • Medial parapatellar surgical approach
  • DePuy Attune knee system
  • Spinal anaesthetic with optional sedation
  • Enhanced recovery: walking the same day if safe
  • Dissolving sutures - no clips or staples to remove

Velys robotic-assisted knee replacement

The Velys system by Johnson & Johnson uses pre-operative imaging and intraoperative sensor data to guide every cut to within ±0.5° of the planned alignment. Sensors measure ligament tension in real time as the knee moves through its full range, allowing Mr Barrow to optimise the soft-tissue balance.

  • Sub-millimetre implant positioning
  • Real-time soft-tissue balancing
  • Consistently more natural-feeling knee post-operatively
  • Suitable for most primary total knee replacement patients

Mr Barrow completed his Velys robotic training at the DePuy academy in Leeds, UK.

Recovery after knee replacement

The first two weeks are the most important. Achieving full extension of the knee, lying the leg out completely flat, is essential and must be prioritised even if it is uncomfortable. Stiffness that develops in this window can become permanent. Physiotherapy exercises must be performed diligently several times per day to encourage straightening and bending of the knee.

Most patients walk the same day of their surgery with crutches and are unaided by 6 weeks, driving at 6 weeks, and returning to sport by 3–6 months.

Serving patients across the North West

Mr Barrow's private knee practice is based at The John Charnley Ward in Wrightington, conveniently located off junction 27 on the M6, and Beardwood Hospital in Blackburn, located off the M65, making it easily accessible for the Northwest of England including the Ribble Valley, Preston, Manchester, Burnley, Wigan, Liverpool, Lancaster, Cumbria, Yorkshire and beyond.

Mr Barrow’s NHS practice is based at Wrightington Hospital, one of the leading orthopaedic centres in the country.

Risks & safety

Understanding the risks.

Knee replacement is a safe and reliably successful operation, but like any major surgery it carries some risk. Mr Barrow will discuss these with you fully at your consultation and explain how you can reduce your risk. The most relevant are summarised below.

InfectionUnfortunately despite significant precautions, some patient will develop an infection. This risk is approximately 1/200 (0.5%) patients. Stopping smoking, maintaining a healthy body weight, controlling diabetes and other steps can help to reduce the risk.
Ongoing pain1 in 5 patients (20%) will have some ongoing pain after a knee replacement. Careful patient selection helps reduce this risk.
Blood clotsA clot can form in the deep veins of the leg (DVT) and, rarely, travel to the lungs. You'll be given blood-thinning medication and encouraged to move early to reduce this risk.
StiffnessSome patients develop stiffness afterwards, which is why early physiotherapy is so important.
Nerve or ligament damageMost people with have some reduced sensation adjacent to their surgical wound, on the outside of the knee.
Frequently asked questions

Velys is a robotic-assisted platform by Johnson & Johnson that uses pre-operative imaging and intraoperative sensors to guide the surgeon's cuts to within ±0.5° of the planned position. It provides real-time soft-tissue balancing data during surgery. The robot does not perform the surgery independently, Mr Barrow controls every cut.

Early studies have suggested robotic surgery may improve soft tissue damage, early pain and improved alignment. It is yet to be determined if robotic surgery improves long term outcomes. Robotic assistance improves the precision of implant positioning, which is associated with better implant survivorship and a more natural-feeling knee. Mr Barrow will advise whether you are a suitable candidate.

A primary total knee replacement takes approximately 45–90 minutes. Robotic-assisted surgery adds approximately 15–20 minutes for planning and sensor attachment.

Most patients walk with a frame or crutches on the day of surgery. Full weight-bearing is immediate. Physiotherapy begins once the anaesthetic has worn off.

Essential. Achieving full extension of the knee in the first 2 weeks is critical. Stiffness that develops in this window can become permanent. Physiotherapy will also focus on the bend of your knee and strengthening the muscles around the knee. Mr Barrow will arrange a structured physiotherapy programme for you before you leave hospital.

Yes. Mr Barrow sees patients from Manchester, Trafford, Stockport, Salford, Oldham, Rochdale, Bolton, Tameside, Wigan, Bury and across Greater Manchester.

Mr Barrow's patient base spans Lancashire and the wider North West — including the Ribble Valley (Clitheroe, Longridge, Whalley), Preston, Blackburn, Greater Manchester, Liverpool, Wirral, Cheshire, Cumbria, the Lake District and Yorkshire.