Knee replacement is a decision with a defined entry point: arthritis that limits daily life and has not responded to everything short of surgery. Patients in Dubai who reach that point want to know what the assessment covers, what the operation does and what follows.

This guide sets out who is a candidate, what the assessment involves, how the process runs and what to ask a surgeon.

What knee replacement does

In a total knee replacement the worn surfaces of the thigh bone and shin bone are replaced with metal and plastic components, and the kneecap is sometimes resurfaced. The aim is to relieve arthritis pain and restore function. The NHS explains the operation, and AAOS OrthoInfo covers total knee replacement.

The three tests for candidacy

  1. Function. Pain and stiffness limit walking, stairs, sleep or work.
  2. The X-ray. Standing X-rays show the joint space lost and the arthritis.
  3. The ladder. Physiotherapy, weight and activity management, medication and injections have been used and no longer hold the knee.

The NHS explains osteoarthritis, the most common reason for replacement. Age is one factor among several. Function, the X-ray and the failure of other treatment matter more.

What the assessment covers

I examine the knee, alignment, stability and movement, review the standing X-rays and discuss what you have already tried. I explain whether replacement is the right step now, later or not at all. Patients who were advised to have surgery elsewhere can bring their scans for a second opinion.

Alternatives before replacement

Not every painful arthritic knee needs a replacement. Weight management, strengthening, walking aids, anti-inflammatory medication, injections and, in selected cases, arthroscopic or realignment procedures are part of the ladder. I completed a fellowship in knee arthroscopy and adult joint reconstruction at Sancheti Institute in Pune in 2009, with training in joint reconstruction.

Technology and technique

Robotic assistance is part of modern knee replacement planning. This article covers what robotic-assisted knee replacement does and what to ask a surgeon who offers it. The implant, the approach and the way alignment is set are discussed before you decide.

The process

  1. Assessment and X-rays.
  2. A surgical plan covering the implant and approach, explained before you decide.
  3. Preparation for surgery, including the physiotherapy plan and any medical review.
  4. Surgery and early walking.
  5. Structured rehabilitation.

Joint replacement at Medcare JBR and Jumeirah covers the full pathway.

Experience behind the decision

I have practised in Dubai since 2016, and my own record counts more than 5,000 orthopaedic procedures including more than 1,800 arthroscopic surgeries. That count is my own and is not audited. My training and roles are listed with links on the verification page.

Questions patients ask

Am I too young for a knee replacement?

Age is one factor among several. Function, the X-ray and the failure of other treatments matter more.

Do I need a replacement if my X-ray looks bad?

No. The X-ray is only one of the three tests. Function and the response to other treatment decide.

Can I get a second opinion?

Yes. Bring the images and reports.

What if only part of my knee is worn?

Some patients have partial arthritis. The assessment looks at which compartments are involved.

Where do I book?

Medcare JBR and Medcare Jumeirah.

Check the facts yourself

Book a knee replacement assessment in Dubai

Call or WhatsApp +971 553117577, request an appointment online, or see the contact page for the address and consultation days. I examine the problem, review any scans you bring and explain each option before any decision is made.

Keep reading

Reliable references