Hip and knee replacement

Hip and knee replacement services assess and care for people who may need surgery to replace a damaged hip or knee joint. 

Care may include assessment, education and preparation before surgery, joint replacement surgery, rehabilitation and follow-up care. 

Specialized assessment and intake clinics are used in some areas of the province to help coordinate this care. 

Hip or knee replacement may be considered when a joint condition causes ongoing pain, difficulty moving or problems with everyday activities. 

The care team can help: 

• assess your condition  
• determine whether surgery may be appropriate  
• explain hip or knee replacement surgery  
• develop a care plan based on your needs  
• help you prepare for surgery and recovery  
• coordinate your care before surgery  
• provide education and support  
• connect you with rehabilitation services  

Not everyone who is assessed will need surgery. Your care team will discuss the treatment options that are appropriate for you. 

You may be referred for assessment if you have a hip or knee condition that may require joint replacement. 

Your referral and assessment will help the orthopedic team determine whether surgery is appropriate. 

You need a referral from a health-care provider. 

Some areas use a central intake system. This means referrals are sent to one place, where they are reviewed and directed to the appropriate clinic or orthopedic provider. 

The referral and assessment process varies depending on where you receive care.

In Central Newfoundland, several clinics work together to assess and prepare people who may need hip or knee replacement. 

The Orthopedic Intake and Assessment Clinic (OIAC) is the first step for people who may need hip or knee replacement. The clinic reviews referrals, assesses patients and helps determine whether surgery may be appropriate. 

The Total Joint Assessment Clinic (TJAC) and Preadmission Clinic (PAC) help people who have been recommended for hip or knee replacement prepare for surgery. 

These clinics work with family doctors, specialists and other health-care providers to coordinate assessment, surgery preparation and care.  

Before surgery, your care may include: 

• a full pre-surgery assessment  
• information about your surgery  
• help preparing for surgery and recovery  
• a review of your health and care needs  
• planning for rehabilitation  
• information about returning home safely  

Your care team will explain what you need to do before your surgery. 

Follow the instructions provided by your surgical team. 

Your team may provide information about: 

• preparing your health for surgery  
• medications  
• exercises or activities before surgery  
• what to bring to hospital  
• what to expect on the day of surgery  
• moving safely after surgery  
• preparing your home for your return  
• rehabilitation and recovery

Your care team may include: 

• orthopedic surgeons  
• nurses  
• physiotherapists  
• occupational therapists  
• social workers  
• dietitians  
• pharmacists  
• care facilitators  
• administrative staff 

Care facilitators help coordinate care and education throughout the surgical process. 

They may help: 

• coordinate your care  
• provide education about surgery and recovery  
• support care based on current best practices  
• plan for a safe and timely return home 

Carbonear

Carbonear General Hospital

• Orthopedic clinic
  Phone: 709-945-3855
• Orthopedic central intake
  Phone: 709-777-0925

Corner Brook

Western Memorial Regional Hospital

• Orthopedic clinic
  Phone: 709-784-6744
• Orthopedic central intake
  Phone: 709-784-2997
• Pre-admission clinic
  Phone: 709-784-2997

Gander

James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre
Orthopedic Intake and Assessment Clinic (OIAC)
Preadmission Clinic (PAC)
Total Joint Assessment Clinic (TJAC)

• General inquiries
  Phone: 709-256-5799
• Post-operative inquiries —Orthopedic Inpatient Nursing Unit
  Phone: 709-256-5621

St. Anthony

Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital

• General inquiries
  Phone: 709-454-3333

St. John’s

Ambulatory Health Hub

• Orthopedic central intake
  Phone: 709-777-0925
• Orthopedic clinic appointments
  Phone: 709-777-6440 or 709-777-5508

Rehabilitation is a big part of recovery. It helps people get stronger and move better after an injury or surgery. 

Physiotherapy can help you:  

• build strength  
• improve movement  
• return to daily activities 
• learn exercises to continue at home  
• learn ways to support your recovery and prevent injuries 

 Some treatment may also be provided at home, depending on the services available and your needs. 

You may also be interested in:  

• Orthopedic clinics  
• Orthopedic surgery and inpatient care  
• Physiotherapy 
• Occupational therapy