How Long Does Knee Replacement Surgery Take?

• Partial Knee Replacement: Typically takes 30–45 minutes
• Total Knee Replacement: Usually completed in 60–90 minutes
• At Orthopaedic Innovation: Most procedures take around 30 minutes of surgical time, thanks to software-assisted planning and minimally invasive techniques

While the surgical portion is relatively short, your total time in theatre (including anaesthesia, positioning, and recovery room transfer) may be 2 to 2.5 hours.

Several factors can influence how long your knee replacement takes:

• Type of procedure: Partial vs. total knee replacement
• Surgical technique: Minimally invasive vs. traditional open approach
• Your anatomy: Severe arthritis, deformity, or previous surgeries may require more time
• Technology used: Software-assisted planning can streamline the process
• Surgeon experience: Our consultants perform hundreds of procedures annually, ensuring both speed and precision
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At Orthopaedic Innovation, we don’t just operate efficiently: we operate with precision and teamwork. Most of our knee replacements are completed in around 30 minutes of surgical time, which is significantly faster than the national average. And that speed translates into measurable clinical benefits:

• Lower risk of infection:
  Shorter operative times mean less exposure to airborne bacteria. Research shows that every additional 30 minutes in theatre can increase the risk of surgical site infection (SSI).
• Reduced anaesthetic exposure:
  A faster procedure means less time under general or spinal anaesthesia (especially important for patients with heart, lung, or kidney conditions).
• Improved recovery outcomes:
  Less time in theatre often leads to less blood loss, reduced tissue trauma, and earlier mobilisation; helping patients stand and walk the same day...which reduces the risk of complications like blood clots.

This level of efficiency is made possible by the close collaboration between Professor Adrian Wilson and Dr Kristian Kley, who operate in tandem on every knee replacement. Their combined expertise means your surgery is not only swift, but meticulously executed.

Explore our approach in detail: Knee Replacement at Orthopaedic Innovation

• Here’s a simplified breakdown of what happens in theatre:

  1. Anaesthesia: You’ll receive a light general anaesthetic, often combined with a nerve block for pain control
  2. Incision and exposure: A small incision is made to access the joint, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible
  3. Bone preparation: Damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the femur and tibia
  4. Implant placement: The new components are fitted and aligned using software guidance
  5. Closure and dressing: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied

  For a helpful overview of the full surgical process, see the NHS guide to how knee replacement is done¹.

Surgery may be brief, but recovery is where the transformation happens. Thanks to our Rapid-Recovery protocols and fantastic physio partner:

• Most patients stand and walk on the same day with physiotherapy support
• You’ll typically return home within 24 hours
• Many resume desk-based work in 4 to 8 weeks
• Strength and mobility continue to improve for up to 12 months

For additional insight into post-op recovery, see Patient.info’s guide to knee replacement and recovery¹.

See more stories on our Patient Testimonials page