Knee Surgery

Knee surgery in Australia can help improve quality of life, restore function, and manage persistent pain when conservative treatments are no longer effective. In Australia, there are several types of knee procedures available. Each is suited to a different condition, diagnosis, or lifestyle goal.

This guide outlines the overview of the main surgical options, from total knee replacements to minimally invasive arthroscopy, including what each procedure involves, when it might be recommended, and what to expect before and after surgery. Whether you're just starting your research or getting ready to speak with a knee surgeon, this page will help you explore your options and navigate your next steps with confidence.

What Is Knee Surgery and Who Might Need It?

Knee surgery refers to a range of procedures that aim to treat joint damage, relieve pain, and restore mobility. These procedures vary in complexity, from minor keyhole interventions to full joint replacements, and are typically performed by an orthopaedic knee surgeon.

Common reasons a person might be referred for knee surgery include:

• Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis and similar joint disorders
• Ligament damage, including injuries to the ACL, PCL, LCL, and MCL
• Cartilage or meniscus damage
• Structural deformity (e.g. bow-legs or knock-knees)
• Persistent swelling, locking, or instability despite conservative treatment

In many situations, surgery is considered only after conservative options—such as physiotherapy, weight management, medications, and joint injections—have not provided sufficient relief. Alongside these factors, your surgeon will also consider individual elements such as general health, activity level, and personal goals when determining if surgery is appropriate. For example, how weight affects knee surgery eligibility may come into focus during planning, particularly where joint stress or anaesthetic risk needs to be factored in.

How Surgeons Determine the Right Procedure

Orthopaedic surgeons consider several factors before recommending a specific surgery:

• The location and severity of damage within the knee
• The patient’s age, weight, and activity level
• The underlying condition (e.g. arthritis, trauma, ligament tear)
• The patient’s personal goals, such as returning to sport, improving mobility, or reducing pain

In some cases, imaging results (like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs) may reveal more about the condition than symptoms alone, helping guide the decision toward the most suitable procedure.

Surgeons also assess how the knee joint moves under load and whether the damage is isolated or widespread. These insights help match patients with the right approach, whether that’s a targeted repair or a full joint replacement.

Types of Knee Surgery in Australia

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of knee surgery, with links to more detailed information on each procedure. These summaries are designed to give you a high-level understanding of when and why each option may be considered.

Total Knee Replacement

Typically recommended for: advanced arthritis or widespread joint damage

In total knee replacement, the damaged surfaces of the thighbone, shinbone, and sometimes kneecap are replaced with artificial components. It’s generally recommended when all compartments of the knee are affected and non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief.

Many individuals who have this procedure notice less pain and find everyday tasks easier to manage. It’s often suitable for individuals whose knee arthritis interferes with walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping comfortably.

Learn more about Total Knee Replacement →

Partial Knee Replacement

Often considered in cases of localised arthritis in one part of the knee

This surgery replaces only the affected compartment, typically the medial (inner) side. It preserves more of your natural knee and may allow for faster recovery. It’s often considered when damage is limited and joint alignment is stable.

Because the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments are left intact, patients may retain a more “natural” knee feel after surgery. A surgeon may recommend this option if imaging shows joint wear is isolated and hasn’t progressed to other compartments.

Explore Partial Knee Replacement →

Knee Reconstruction or Repair

Commonly used to treat: ligament injuries such as ACL or PCL tears

This procedure is commonly performed after sports injuries or trauma. It may involve reconstructing a torn ligament using a tendon graft or repairing damaged soft tissue.

It’s most often considered for patients who experience instability, frequent knee “giving way,” or cannot return to activity despite rehab. Early diagnosis and surgical timing can affect long-term outcomes, especially in younger or athletic individuals.

Understand Knee Reconstruction or Repair →

Knee Arthroscopy

Usually performed for: diagnosing and treating small-scale issues inside the joint

Knee arthroscopy involves a minimally invasive technique where a small camera and specialised tools are inserted through small incisions to assess or treat the joint. It’s often used for cartilage trimming, meniscus repair, or joint cleaning.

Because it requires only small incisions, recovery is typically quicker than open procedures. Arthroscopy may also be used to explore the joint when the diagnosis is unclear, providing a clearer view of the problem inside the knee.

Read about Knee Arthroscopy →

Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery

May be appropriate for: patients seeking a precision-guided joint replacement, based on individual clinical criteria

Robotic-assisted surgery enhances a surgeon’s ability to plan and execute a knee replacement with high accuracy. This technique may offer improved alignment, better implant fit, and a personalised approach.

As robotic-assisted techniques become more integrated into joint replacement pathways, understanding robotic surgery can help clarify how this approach fits into modern orthopaedic care.

The robotic system is controlled by the surgeon and uses pre-operative scans to map out a precise surgical plan. This method may be appropriate for select individuals who meet certain requirements related to joint alignment or bone condition, though it’s not recommended for everyone.

Discover Robotic Knee Surgery →

Revision Knee Replacement Surgery

Often considered when a previous knee replacement has worn out, become unstable, or is no longer functioning as intended

Revision knee replacement surgery involves removing some or all of the existing implant and replacing it with new components. It is usually considered when a primary knee replacement has developed issues such as loosening, infection, instability, or wear over time.

Because this is generally a more complex procedure than an initial replacement, planning and recovery may take longer. Surgeons may also need to address changes in bone quality or scar tissue, which can influence the overall approach.

Revision surgery may help improve pain levels and restore function, although outcomes can vary depending on individual health, the reason for revision, and the complexity of the case. For many people, it represents an opportunity to regain mobility and continue with daily activities more comfortably.

Learn more about Revision Knee Replacement Surgery →