Total Knee Replacement Surgery in North Wales by Dr Amir Azam, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Chronic knee pain from arthritis or injury can make even simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs a challenge. As a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with fellowship training in knee replacement surgery (MBBS, MS Orth, MRCS, FRCS Orth), I offer advanced total knee replacement in North Wales, combining modern implants with personalised rehabilitation to restore your mobility.
What Is Total Knee Replacement?
Also called knee arthroplasty, total knee replacement involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from your knee joint and replacing it with a high-quality metal and polyethylene implant. This operation has a long, successful track record in the UK for relieving pain and improving function in people with severe arthritis or joint damage.
Who Needs Knee Replacement Surgery?
You may benefit from total knee replacement if you have:
- Severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or post-traumatic arthritis
- Persistent pain and stiffness despite physiotherapy, medications or injections
- Difficulty with daily activities such as walking, getting up from chairs or climbing stairs
- Knee deformity or instability from injury
Why Choose a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon in North Wales?
As a knee replacement specialist working in both NHS and private practice, I offer:
- Evidence-based techniques endorsed by NICE
- Advanced implant choices for long-term results
- Personalised pre-operative assessment and post-operative care
- A track record of high patient satisfaction and low complication rates
The Procedure
Under anaesthesia, I remove the worn-out surfaces of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) and replace them with durable components. Depending on your knee’s condition, we may also resurface the kneecap (patella). The goal is to realign the knee, restore smooth motion and alleviate pain.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
With modern pain management and physiotherapy, most patients stand and walk with support within 24 hours of surgery. Typical recovery timeline:
- Hospital stay: 2–3 days
- Walking with a stick/crutches: 4–6 weeks
- Driving: 6 weeks (after surgeon clearance)
- Full recovery: 6-12 months
A tailored exercise plan strengthens your muscles and helps you regain full confidence in your new knee.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits:
- Significant pain relief
- Improved knee alignment and stability
- Increased walking distance and quality of life
Risks (Low):
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Implant loosening over time
- Knee stiffness
Meticulous surgical technique, pre-operative screening and modern implants help minimise risks.
FAQs: Total Knee Replacement
Q1: How long does a knee replacement last?
Modern implants typically last 10-15 years or more, especially with an active but joint-friendly lifestyle.
Q2: Can I kneel after surgery?
Some patients can kneel, though it varies individually and we don’t recommend kneeling.
Q3: What’s the difference between total and partial knee replacement?
Total replaces all compartments; partial replaces only the damaged section. We’ll decide based on your X-rays and symptoms.
Hi, I am a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon in North Wales, United Kingdom.
I help people regain their mobility and live pain-free lives through advanced hip and knee surgery. As a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, I specialize in hip replacement, knee replacement, and revision surgery (re-do surgery for failed hip and knee replacements), offering both NHS (National Health Service) and private practice expertise.
I am also registered with leading private medical insurers, including AXA Health, BUPA, Vitality Health, WPA, Aviva, Cigna, Allianz Partners, and Healix Health Services Ltd, enabling seamless access to private orthopaedic care for insured patients.
For appointments or any other enquiries, please email secretary@dramirazam.com.
Dr Amir Azam
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS, MS (Orth), MRCS, FRCS (Orth)
