Do you need a referral for robotic knee replacement?

The referral allows an orthopedic surgeon to assess knee pain, stiffness, movement, alignment, walking ability, and how symptoms affect daily activities. Imaging helps determine whether knee replacement is appropriate. If surgery is considered, the team can explain whether robotic assistance fits your anatomy and the planned operation. Robotic equipment supports surgical planning and instrument guidance; it does not replace the surgeon's judgment or the need for rehabilitation.

Start with your family doctor, orthopedic clinician, or another service that can refer to orthopedic surgery, and ask the chosen hospital about its process. Prepare scan reports, a list of medicines and allergies, prior treatments, medical conditions, and details of previous knee operations. Write down walking limits, night pain, instability, and activities you want to regain. Ask whether physiotherapy, medication changes, injections, or other measures should be tried first.

Seek prompt assessment for a hot, red, rapidly swollen knee with fever, inability to bear weight after an injury, a visibly deformed joint, or sudden severe calf swelling. Emergency help is needed for chest pain or sudden breathlessness. These problems should not wait for a routine surgical referral.

Ask whether knee replacement is indicated, why robotic assistance is being considered, what alternatives are available, which scans are required, and how recovery and physiotherapy would be organised.