FAQs

Appointments

How can I make an appointment with Mr Costin-Brown

To arrange a private outpatient appointment, please complete the appointment request form and someone will be in touch with you. Alternatively, you can contact Nuffield North Staffs at 01782 432227 to book your appointment.

I have private healthcare insurance. How do I book an appointment?

If you have private healthcare insurance, please contact your insurance company to obtain pre-authorisation for the appointment. Make sure to bring your policy and authorization number with you. You can book the appointment by completing the appointment request form and someone will be in touch with you. Alternatively, you can contact Nuffield North Staffs at 01782 432227.

What should I bring to my appointment?

For your appointment, please remember to bring the following:

Your referral letter (if available)
Details of your insurance policy and authorisation code (if applicable)
A list of your medications and any known allergies
Relevant medical records or letters
Any questions you would like to ask (writing them down in advance can be helpful)
A family member or friend for support, if desired

I was referred for a scan. How can I make an appointment to see Mr Costin-Brown once it is done?

After you have had the scan, whilst still in the Hospital, attend the reception desk to book an appointment with Mr Costin-Brown. If it is not convenient to arrange the appointment at that time, please contact Mr Costin-Brown’s secretary to book the appointment (Ms Louise Lindop).

I had an X-Ray or MRI scan done elsewhere. How can I ensure that these are available for review at my appointment?

If you have previously undergone an X-ray or MRI scan at a different facility, these images can be transferred to the Nuffield Health North Staffordshire Hospital system for review during your appointment. When booking your appointment, inform the hospital staff that you have had imaging done elsewhere and would like them to be transferred to Nuffield Health for Mr Costin-Brown to review. Keep in mind that transferring the images may take some time, so it’s important to provide sufficient notice to ensure the images are available on the Nuffield system.

Alternatively, if you have the images on a disc, you can bring it with you to your appointment, and the hospital staff can upload the images onto the system during your visit.

Total Hip Replacement

When will I be able to go home following surgery?

After your operation, there are certain criteria that need to be met before you can be safely discharged. These criteria ensure that you are ready to return home and continue your recovery. They include:

Safe mobilising with the aid of crutches or a frame
Appropriate support in place at home
Satisfactory post-operative blood tests and X-Rays
Normal vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, etc.)
A dry wound

The majority of patients will be able to go home the day after their operation. In some cases, same-day discharge may be possible (known as day case hip replacement surgery) – if you are suitable for day case surgery, this will be discussed with you well in advance. However, your safety is our priority, and if additional time in the hospital is needed for a safe discharge, you will be advised accordingly.

Please note that we strive to ensure you are fully prepared before leaving the hospital environment.

Who should I contact if I have issues following discharge?

Before your discharge, you will receive clear instructions about whom to contact in different situations. In an emergency, dial 999. For early post-operative issues related to your hip, contact the ward. For non-urgent matters, please get in touch with Mr. Costin-Brown’s secretary, Ms. Louise Lindop

When will I be seen following the operation?

An appointment will be scheduled for you with Mr. Costin-Brown at around 6 weeks after your surgery. This routine check-up aims to ensure that you are progressing as expected and to address any concerns you may have. It is also an opportune time to discuss activity and future plans. If you have any issues in the meantime, however, please contact Mr Costin-Brown’s secretary and an appointment can be made more urgently.

How long will it take for me to recover from hip replacement surgery?

Recovery time varies for each individual, but typically it takes around 6 weeks to be able to perform daily activities with minimal assistance. It may take several months to fully recover and resume more strenuous activities.

When can I return to work after hip replacement surgery?

The duration before returning to work depends on the nature of your job and its physical demands. Desk jobs usually allow a return within 4-6 weeks after surgery, while manual jobs may require 3-4 months for a full return.

How long will I have to use crutches or a frame after hip replacement surgery?

After your hip replacement surgery, you will require walking aids to support your mobility during the initial stages of your recovery. This helps you maintain a normal walking pattern and ensures a safe healing process.

The duration of using walking aids varies from person to person, depending on individual progress and healing. On average, patients begin to reduce their reliance on crutches around 4 weeks after surgery and are able to walk without assistance by 6 weeks. However, it’s important to note that everyone’s recovery is unique, and the timeline may be adjusted based on your specific condition and progress.

Mr Costin-Brown recommends using the crutches until you are able to walk normally. It is better to walk normally with crutches than to limp without them and develop bad habits which can put additional stress on other parts of your body.

How long will my new hip joint last?

Modern-day hip replacements demonstrate remarkable longevity compared to older implants that were prone to wear or loosening. Hip implants do not have an expiration date. Instead, their lifespan depends on several factors, including age, gender, activity level, weight, and the specific bearing surfaces used. For example, a 50-year-old male undergoing hip replacement surgery has a 92% chance of the implant lasting at least 16 years, while a 75-year-old female has an approximate 97% chance of the same duration. During your consultations with Mr. Costin-Brown, he will thoroughly discuss your individual circumstances and any associated risks.

Regarding the implants utilised by Mr. Costin-Brown, the average probability of your new hip joint lasting a minimum of 10 years is approximately 98% (this figure encompasses patients of all ages, genders, and surgeons, providing a general indication of the implant’s longevity).

When can I resume sexual activity after hip replacement surgery?

You can resume sexual activity once you feel comfortable and ready. Typically, this can be started after 4-6 weeks of surgery, depending on your recovery progress. However, it’s important to be mindful of your hip’s position and avoid putting your hip into positions that could risk dislocation. If you have any specific concerns or questions about resuming sexual activity, don’t hesitate to discuss them with Mr. Costin-Brown.

Can I drive after hip replacement surgery?

There are no strict rules regarding the timeline for returning to driving after hip replacement surgery. It depends on factors such as the operated leg and whether you drive a manual or automatic car.

Before resuming driving, you should be off strong painkillers, have full control of the vehicle, and be able to make an emergency stop. Generally, it takes about 6 weeks to reach this point. If you had a left hip replacement and drive an automatic car, you may be able to return to driving earlier, typically around 4 weeks. These timelines are general estimates, and it’s important for each individual patient to assess their fitness to drive safely.

What type of exercises can I do after hip replacement surgery?

A physiotherapist will provide you with specific exercises to aid in your recovery after hip replacement surgery. These exercises typically include range of motion exercises, strength training exercises, and low-impact cardiovascular exercises. It’s important to follow the guidance of your physiotherapist and gradually increase your activity level as you progress.

Will I need to take blood thinners after hip replacement surgery?

Yes, one of the risks associated with total hip replacement is the formation of blood clots. These clots can potentially travel to the lungs, heart, or brain and pose a serious threat. On average, the chance of developing a blood clot in the leg is around 0.4%, and the chance of developing a blood clot in the lung is 0.3%.

Your risk of developing blood clots after surgery will be assessed, and you will be prescribed appropriate blood thinners for a specified period of time to reduce this risk.

Will I be able to participate in sports or high-impact activities after hip replacement surgery?

The decision to engage in sports or high-impact activities following hip replacement surgery depends on various factors and opinion differs among surgeons. While high-impact activities may potentially wear down the plastic liner more quickly, modern-day plastics are durable, and the extent of wear and implications remains uncertain.

Staying physically active is important for muscle strength and overall health after hip replacement surgery. Low-impact activities like walking, cycling, golf, doubles tennis, and hiking are generally recommended. If you have plans to return to high-impact sports such as running, football, singles tennis, squash, or high-impact aerobics, it’s advisable to discuss this with Mr. Costin-Brown before your surgery. He will be able to provide personalised guidance based on your specific situation.

Total Knee Replacement

When will I be able to go home following surgery?

Safe mobilising with the aid of crutches or a frame
Appropriate support in place at home
Satisfactory post-operative blood tests and X-Rays
Normal vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, etc.)
A dry wound

The majority of patients will be able to go home the day after their operation. However, your safety is our priority, and if additional time in the hospital is needed for a safe discharge, you will be advised accordingly.

Please note that we strive to ensure you are fully prepared before leaving the hospital environment.

Who should I contact if I have issues following discharge?

Before your discharge, you will receive clear instructions about whom to contact in different situations. In an emergency, dial 999. For early post-operative issues related to your knee, contact the ward. For non-urgent matters, please get in touch with Mr. Costin-Brown’s secretary, Ms. Louise Lindop

When will I be seen following the operation?

How long will it take for me to recover from knee replacement surgery?

Recovery time varies for each individual. The initial 6 weeks after surgery can be challenging, and it may take this duration to begin noticing significant improvements. By around 6-8 weeks, most patients feel comfortable and capable of performing daily activities with minimal assistance. However, it is important to note that full recovery and the ability to engage in more strenuous activities may take several months. In some cases, it can even take up to 1 year to experience the complete benefits following the surgery.

When can I return to work after knee replacement surgery?

The duration before returning to work depends on the nature of your job and its physical demands. Desk jobs usually allow a return within 6 weeks after surgery, while manual jobs may require 3-4 months for a full return.

How long will I have to use crutches or a frame after knee replacement surgery?

After your knee replacement surgery, you will require walking aids to support your mobility during the initial stages of your recovery. This helps you maintain a normal walking pattern and ensures a safe healing process.

How long will my new knee joint last?

Modern-day knee replacements demonstrate remarkable longevity compared to older implants that were prone to wear or loosening. Knee implants do not have an expiration date. Instead, their lifespan depends on several factors, including age, gender, activity level, weight, and the specific bearing surfaces used. For example, a 50-year-old male undergoing total knee replacement surgery has an 88% chance of the implant lasting at least 16 years, while a 75-year-old female has an approximate 97% chance of the same duration. During your consultations with Mr. Costin-Brown, he will thoroughly discuss your individual circumstances and any associated risks.

Regarding the implants utilised by Mr. Costin-Brown, the average probability of your new total knee replacement joint lasting a minimum of 10 years is approximately 97% (this figure encompasses patients of all ages, genders, and surgeons, providing a general indication of the implant’s longevity). For partial knee replacement, this figure is around 94%.

When can I resume sexual activity after knee replacement surgery?

You can resume sexual activity once you feel comfortable and ready. Typically, this can be started after 4-6 weeks of surgery, depending on your recovery progress.

Can I drive after knee replacement surgery?

There are no strict rules regarding the timeline for returning to driving after knee replacement surgery. It depends on factors such as the operated leg and whether you drive a manual or automatic car.

Before resuming driving, you should be off strong painkillers, have full control of the vehicle, and be able to make an emergency stop. Generally, it takes about 6 weeks to reach this point. If you had a left knee replacement and drive an automatic car, you may be able to return to driving earlier, typically around 4 weeks. These timelines are general estimates, and it’s important for each individual patient to assess their fitness to drive safely.

What type of exercises can I do after knee replacement surgery?

A physiotherapist will provide you with specific exercises to aid in your recovery after knee replacement surgery. It is imperative that you do the exercises regularly at home. Mr Costin-Brown recommends performing the exercises 4 times per day (morning, before lunch, before dinner, before bed). Taking your pain-killers 30 minutes prior to exercise can help manage discomfort during the session. After completing each set of exercises, it is advised to elevate and apply ice to your knee, especially during the initial weeks.

You will have follow-up appointments with a physiotherapist who will assess your progress and provide guidance on progressing to more advanced exercises based on your individual recovery journey.

Will I need to take blood thinners after knee replacement surgery?

Yes, one of the risks associated with knee replacement surgery is the formation of blood clots. These clots can potentially travel to the lungs, heart, or brain and pose a serious threat. On average, the chance of developing a blood clot in the leg is around 0.9%, and the chance of developing a blood clot in the lung is 0.6%.

Your risk of developing blood clots after surgery will be assessed, and you will be prescribed appropriate blood thinners for a specified period of time to reduce this risk.

Will I be able to participate in sports or high-impact activities after knee replacement surgery?

The decision to engage in sports or high-impact activities following hip replacement surgery depends on various factors and opinion differs among surgeons.
Staying physically active is important for muscle strength and overall health after your operation. Low-impact activities like walking, cycling, golf, doubles tennis, and hiking are generally recommended. If you have plans to return to high-impact sports such as running, football, singles tennis, squash, or high-impact aerobics, it’s advisable to discuss this with Mr. Costin-Brown before your surgery. He will be able to provide personalised guidance based on your specific situation.

Knee Arthroscopy

When can I go home after knee arthroscopy surgery?

Knee arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that typically allows patients to go home on the same day as the operation. However, if the surgery is performed later in the day or if there are any reasons that prevent you from being discharged, you may need to stay in the hospital overnight.

How soon can I return to work after knee arthroscopy?

The time it takes to return to work after knee arthroscopy depends on the nature of your job and also the nature of your surgery. In general, if you have a desk-based job, you can usually resume work around 2 weeks after the surgery. However, for jobs that involve manual labour or physical activities, it typically takes about 6 weeks to fully return to normal activities.

Why doesn’t Mr Costin-Brown perform all types of knee arthroscopy procedures?

Mr Costin-Brown specialises in degenerative conditions of the hip and knee. Keyhole surgery forms an important role in the management of degenerative knee conditions, but Mr Costin-Brown also performs a high volume of hip and knee replacements and redo hip and knee replacements. By keeping his practice relatively narrow, it enables him to be highly specialised in his areas of expertise. For knee conditions related to sports injuries and kneecap (patella) issues, Mr Costin-Brown collaborates closely with highly skilled colleagues who specialise in those areas.

Knee Injections

What kind of injections does Mr Costin-Brown use?

Mr Costin-Brown offers two types of knee injections for knee osteoarthritis: steroid injections and viscosupplement injections using “SynviscOne.”

How much does it cost?

The cost of knee injections is determined by the Nuffield Health North Staffordshire Hospital. The package fee covers all aspects of the knee injection, including the medication, equipment, facilities, and healthcare provider costs. To obtain a quote, please contact the Nuffield Hospital directly at 01782 432 227. However, please note that the fee for the initial appointment with Mr Costin-Brown is billed separately and is not included in the injection cost.

How can I arrange a knee injection with Mr Costin-Brown?

If you feel that you would like to undergo knee injections, please make an appointment to see Mr Costin-Brown. During the initial consultation, Mr Costin-Brown will conduct a thorough assessment and discuss the available management options with you. If knee injections are determined to be a suitable treatment for you, the arrangement can be made directly with the Nuffield Health North Staffordshire Hospital through their Customer Service Team, who will be available on-site following your appointment.