Your journey, from first appointment to full recovery.
Every patient is different, but the pathway is predictable. Here is what to expect at every stage, in plain English.
Clear, honest, step by step.
First consultation
Mr Barrow will review your symptoms, examine you, and assess any imaging (X-rays, CT or MRI). He will discuss all treatment options, including non-surgical approaches, and answer any questions you have. Following a thorough assessment and discussion, we will agree on the treatment approach that is best for you, and in many cases this may involve non-surgical management.
Bring: any existing X-rays, CT or MRI scans, your GP referral letter if you have one, a summary of your medical history and a list of current medications.
Decision and planning
If surgery is appropriate, Mr Barrow will explain which procedure is recommended and why. You will be given detailed written information. You will require a pre operative assessment prior to your surgery. This will involve being assessed medically and a series of blood tests to ensure it is safe to proceed.
Time to surgery will be discussed at the time of your listing.
Preparing for surgery
Keep as physically active as possible before surgery — even gentle walking helps. Maintain a healthy diet and achieve a healthy weight if advised. It is important to keep your skin in good condition prior to surgery. Any cuts, scratches or infections may mean your surgery will need to be delayed until they have resolved. You will be given a decolonisation pack (a body wash and a nasal gel) to reduce skin bacteria and infection risk.
You will be advised when to fast before your surgery. Food is usually 6 hours and clear fluids until just before your anaesthetic. Take your usual medications with a small sip of water, unless told otherwise. Some blood thinners will need to be paused.
Surgery day
Most patients have a spinal anaesthetic — a single injection that numbs the legs for the operation. You remain awake but comfortable; sedation is available if preferred. You may be aware of some pushing, pulling, banging or sawing during the operation. You will be encouraged to walk to theatre.
You may be aware of pushing, pulling or sawing sensations — this is normal and not painful. Bring headphones if you would like to listen to music.
First days after surgery
Once the anaesthetic wears off, you will be helped to stand and walk with the physiotherapists — usually the same day. Pain relief is given regularly and proactively. Most patients are ready to go home the same day or within 24 hours of their surgery. Some patients may need to stay in longer. Mr Barrow does not use clips or staples: your wound is closed with dissolvable stitches buried beneath the skin and glue.
Your dressing is showerproof. Do not submerge it in a bath or pool. If it fills with blood, becomes detached, or you develop a temperature, contact us immediately. A small area of blood visible under the dressing is normal.
Recovery at home
The first 6 weeks are the most important. For hip patients, avoid extreme positions. For knee patients, achieving full extension (a straight leg) is the priority — even if uncomfortable. Perform your physiotherapy exercises diligently. Crutches are typically used for 4–6 weeks, or until your walking returns to normal.
You can drive when you can perform an emergency stop safely — this is usually 6 weeks post operatively on your braking leg. Most patients return to desk work within 2–4 weeks.
Follow-up and beyond
Mr Barrow sees every patient in clinic around 6-8 weeks post operatively. Follow up beyond this is not always necessary. Improvement post joint replacement may continue for up to 12–18 months after surgery.
Mr Barrow includes the 1st post operative follow up appointment as part of his package.