Hip and knee replacement are among the most effective operations in orthopaedics for advanced arthritis. Total hip replacement, partial hip replacement, and total knee replacement aim to relieve pain and restore function when the joint surface is badly worn. Good preparation helps you get the most from the operation.
Replacement is usually considered when arthritis pain limits walking, sleep, and daily activities despite non-operative treatment, and X-rays confirm advanced joint damage. The decision is shared: imaging alone does not decide surgery — your symptoms and goals matter just as much.
Before surgery is planned, non-operative options are usually explored: weight management, activity modification, physiotherapy and strengthening, walking aids, pain-relief medication, and in some cases injections. For selected younger knee patients with malalignment, realignment surgery (osteotomy) may be an alternative to replacement.
Partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty) is most often used for certain hip fractures in older patients, whereas total hip replacement replaces both the ball and the socket for arthritis. In the knee, total knee replacement resurfaces the worn joint. Your surgeon will explain which option fits your diagnosis.
Medical preparation is an important step. You may need blood tests, an ECG, and an assessment by the anaesthetic team. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart or lung disease, and anaemia should be well controlled before surgery. Tell the team about every medication, especially blood thinners, diabetes medicines, and supplements — some may need to be stopped or adjusted.
Reducing infection risk matters. Skin wounds, ulcers, or infections near the operation site should be treated first, and dental problems should be addressed in advance where possible. Stopping smoking before surgery improves wound healing and reduces complications.
Prepare your body and your home. Pre-operative exercises to strengthen the thigh and hip muscles can help recovery. At home, remove trip hazards such as loose rugs, keep frequently used items at waist height, consider a firm chair with arms, and arrange help with shopping and transport for the first weeks.
Dr Ala' Hawa has Australian fellowship training in joint replacement and uses surgical navigation or robot-assisted planning when appropriate. These tools support accurate implant positioning; whether they are used is discussed as part of your individual plan at OSclinic.
In hospital, most patients are encouraged to stand and walk with a physiotherapist soon after surgery, often on the first day. Pain control, measures to reduce the risk of blood clots, and wound care are part of the routine. The length of stay depends on your recovery and home circumstances.
Early recovery focuses on walking with an aid, regaining movement, and building strength through physiotherapy and a home exercise programme. Knee replacement in particular needs consistent work on bending and straightening. Swelling and tiredness are common for several weeks and gradually settle.
Contact the clinic, or seek urgent care, if you develop increasing redness or discharge from the wound, fever, calf pain or swelling, chest pain, or shortness of breath after surgery.
Our downloads page includes patient checklists to help you prepare. If hip or knee arthritis is limiting your life, book a joint replacement consultation at OSclinic Amman by phone or WhatsApp, or through the contact form, and bring your recent X-rays.
Educational information only — not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Decisions depend on examination and imaging. For emergencies, go to hospital urgently.