At 67, I was active and fit until my previously injured knee suddenly worsened. An MRI revealed advanced arthritis, and walking became increasingly difficult. Despite seeing numerous consultants who recommended knee replacement, I struggled to make a decision. As an academic and scientist, I needed a clear understanding of the procedure and its necessity. Unfortunately, most consultants offered vague or conflicting advice.

Then I met Mr Ian McDermott. He was the only consultant who took the time to explain every detail I needed to know, including how to decide whether and when to proceed with surgery. He even gave me his personal email and responded promptly to all my follow-up questions. He had clear and strong views on how to proceed once I decided to have the knee replacement: a custom-made Conformis implant, a three-day hospital stay, an extensive rehab exercise programme involving regular sessions with a physiotherapist, and regular use of the Game Ready ice machine. It was clear that all of this had been carefully thought through and based on extensive experience. I left the appointment feeling reassured, trusting Mr McDermott, and finally able to decide.

I liked the London Bridge Hospital very much. The nurses were helpful and always there when I needed them. The physios were knowledgeable and knew how to encourage me to take those first scary steps. Of the three times I’ve had general anaesthesia, waking up from this one was by far the easiest, and with the clearest head. I saw Mr McDermott just before the surgery, as expected, but I did not expect that he would also visit me on both days after the procedure. It meant a lot to receive his support, encouragement and advice at such an early stage.

It was soon clear that the surgery had gone well. About an hour after waking up from anaesthesia, I found it easier to stand, albeit with crutches, than before the surgery. Moreover, in my first session with a physio, just six days after surgery, he remarked that my knee looked as if the operation had been four weeks ago!

Recovery was challenging but rewarding. Thanks to Mr McDermott’s tough but effective rehab plan I saw rapid progress. Just nine days post-surgery, I was walking without crutches indoors and with a single crutch outdoors. Within four weeks, I no longer needed crutches at all. My range of motion returned to normal within three months, and now, six months later, I can walk for two hours without resting and stand comfortably for extended periods.

There is a world of difference in my quality of life before and after the knee replacement. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had Mr McDermott, with his knowledge, skill and the perfect balance between compassionate care and demanding rehab plan, as my surgeon.