Hermitage Clinic Patient Information, Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery - Care Advice
If you’re scheduled for a hip or knee replacement at Hermitage Clinic, we encourage you to take a few moments to explore the information below.
We understand that this can feel like an uncertain time, but please know that we’re here for you every step of the way.
Patient Information Videos
Watch the videos below in the order they appear to guide you through each stage of your joint replacement journey — from preparation before surgery, to what to expect in hospital, and how to care for yourself during recovery at home.
These videos have been created to help you feel informed, confident, and supported every step of the way.
Video 1 – Pre-Surgery Patient Advice
Video 2 – Day of Surgery Patient Advice
Video 3 – Post-Surgery Home Living Advice
Patient Information Booklet Downloads
To help you prepare for your upcoming surgery, we've created a series of easy-to-follow guides. Click on the booklet that matches your procedure to download.
Your surgeon will let you know which type of hip replacement approach applies to you.
Total Knee Replacement Guide
Total Hip Replacement Guide - Traditional Approach
Total Hip Replacement Guide – Anterior Approach
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Please spend some time viewing our very detailed patient videos above – these should answer many of your concerns or questions ahead of your joint replacement surgery.
Joint replacement surgery offers several important benefits:
- Relieves pain and restores greater mobility in your hip or knee
- Improves your ability to carry out daily activities with comfort and confidence
- Provides a long-lasting, healthy joint that can serve you well for many years
- Enhances overall quality of life by helping you stay active and independent
You can watch advice from Mr Niall McGoldrick, Orthopaedic Surgeon, along with insights from our experienced Orthopaedic Clinical Specialists on our Orthopaedic Surgery page.
Most patients are up and walking the same day as surgery, with support from our physiotherapy team. Your surgeon will encourage gentle movement early on to help restore strength and mobility as quickly and safely as possible.
Your hospital stay will depend on the type of surgery you have and your individual recovery. Most patients stay for 1–2 days, though with ongoing advances in surgical techniques and recovery protocols, some can go home even sooner.
Yes — most patients go straight home. Convalescence care is only needed in rare cases, such as when a patient has an existing medical condition that could affect recovery. You’ll be independent on discharge, but if you live alone, we recommend preparing a few meals in advance and arranging for family or friends to check in regularly. Please note if convalescence is required, this is something that you would need to arrange yourself before coming to hospital for your surgery.
Yes. Before you leave hospital, your physiotherapist will guide you through stair climbing and ensure you're confident and safe doing so.
At home, it's recommended to do stairs twice a day — once in the morning and once in the evening. This can gradually increase after the first week.
You can shower as soon as you feel ready. Your dressing will be waterproof. However, avoid baths, hot tubs, and swimming pools until your wound is fully healed.
Most joint replacements last 15 to 20 years, and in many cases even longer. How long yours lasts depends on factors like your age, activity level, and weight. Occasionally, infection or loosening of the joint may lead to earlier revision.
Implants are typically made from metals like titanium and medical-grade plastic (polyethylene). Some knee implants may also include ceramic components. For details specific to your procedure, please speak to your consultant.
Yes, it’s possible. Modern security scanners are very sensitive, and your prosthesis might set off an alert. It’s helpful to inform security staff that you've had a joint replacement. Most will use a handheld scanner or perform a brief pat-down regardless.
You should wait until after your 6-week follow-up appointment and speak with your consultant before returning to cycling, running, or using exercise machines.
This varies depending on your job. Please discuss your specific situation with your consultant to determine the right time to return to work safely.
We encourage you to watch our detailed patient information videos above, which answer many common questions and are also a great resource for family or friends helping with your recovery.
We understand this can be an anxious time, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Useful Contact Numbers:
- For questions about your Pre-Assessment appointment: 01 645 9945
- For questions before or after surgery: 01 645 9022