Helping patients across North Wales understand their joint replacement journey — from first consultation through to full recovery.
We provide clear, trustworthy information to help North Wales patients navigate their hip and knee replacement options with confidence.
We put patients first — providing unbiased, easy-to-understand information about procedures, risks, and recovery timelines.
Based in North Wales, we understand local NHS pathways, private options, and the healthcare landscape specific to our region.
From Wrexham to Bangor, we connect patients with the right information to make informed decisions about their joint care.
Detailed information on the most common joint replacement surgeries performed across North Wales.
Hip replacement surgery removes damaged cartilage and bone, replacing it with artificial components. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility within weeks.
Knee replacement resurfaces the damaged joint with metal and plastic components, relieving chronic pain from arthritis and restoring function to allow everyday activities.
Understanding what to expect helps patients prepare and recover with confidence.
Medical assessments, physiotherapy exercises, and home modifications to ensure you're ready for surgery and recovery.
Most joint replacements require a short hospital stay. You'll begin walking with assistance on the same day or the day after surgery.
Physiotherapy begins immediately. Most patients return to light daily activities within 6 weeks with gradual improvement in pain and mobility.
Full recovery varies by individual and procedure type. Most patients achieve peak mobility and comfort between 6 and 12 months post-surgery.
Answers to the most common questions from patients considering joint replacement surgery.
Candidates are typically people with severe joint pain that limits daily activities and has not responded to non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy, medication, or injections. Your GP or orthopaedic surgeon will assess your suitability based on X-rays, your symptoms, age, and general health.
Most hip and knee replacement operations take between 1 and 2 hours. The procedure is usually performed under general or spinal anaesthetic. Your surgical team will discuss the best anaesthetic option with you beforehand.
Joint replacement is a common and generally safe procedure. However, like all surgery, there are risks including infection, blood clots, nerve damage, implant loosening, and dislocation. Your surgeon will discuss these with you and the steps taken to minimise them.
Yes. Joint replacement surgery is available through Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), which covers most of North Wales. Your GP can refer you to an orthopaedic consultant. Waiting times vary; private options are also available at local independent hospitals.
Modern joint replacements typically last 15–25 years or more, depending on your activity level, weight, and the type of implant used. Advances in implant materials and surgical technique continue to improve longevity outcomes.
Have a question about hip or knee replacement? We're here to help patients across North Wales find the right information and support.