Dr Hellman utilises the knee replacement technique of kinematic alignment. The technique was developed 25 years ago as a customisable technique aiming to return the knee to its pre-operative state in line with the patient’s individual anatomy. The individualisation of this technique leads to earlier return to function and better patient outcomes than other surgical modalities.

Throughout his career, Dr Hellman has performed joint replacements with techniques ranging from robotic navigation to patient matched instruments. After researching all available techniques, he has concluded that the greatest accuracy comes from a good surgeon using high quality instruments and matching the implant closely with the patient’s individual anatomy. Dr Hellman utilises the medial pivot knee implant, designed to closely mimic the movements of a normal knee. The majority of knee replacement designs do not achieve this as they are not designed to mimic normal knee kinematics.

Infection is a devastating complication of joint replacement surgery. Dr Hellman has pioneered techniques that minimise the risk of infection. As a result, his infection rates are up to 10 times lower than published rates.

Prior to booking surgery, patients should ask about the surgeon’s failure/revision rate, readmission rate, infection rate, and patient satisfaction rates, and how the reported data was collected (over what time period, how many cases).

Dr Hellman follows up all patients for post-operative outcome measures using questionnaires, over a period of up to 10 years post-op. Based on 2000+ joint replacements Dr Hellman has achieved a patient satisfaction rate of 95%, well over published average rates of 80-85%.

Your GP will need to refer you to have a consultation with Dr Hellman. Prior to your appointment his friendly staff will contact you and get you to fill in some simple questionnaires. You should bring all recent X-rays, scans and other tests with you. Most X-rays are now accessed via the internet, it is important to know which company you went to for your X-rays as they are all accessed differently. During your consult Dr Hellman will assess how you walk, discuss your problem with you, do an appropriate and detailed examination and then discuss your treatment options. Together you and Dr Hellman will develop a plan to improve your situation.

Please bring the following to your consultation:

• Referral from your GP
• X-rays
• Wear clothing which allows exposure for examination
• Your husband/wife or a friend as a second pair of ears

Note it is important to stop smoking at least 6 weeks prior to surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
Blood sugar control is assessed prior to surgery using the Fructosamine test. This must be below 293 in order for surgical safety.