Common questions.
Do I need a referral to see Professor Rodda?
If you have a GP referral, it comes straight to us and someone will call you within two business days. If you do not, call the rooms on (07) 5493 8038 and speak with our nurse practitioner, who can see you in person or by telehealth and arrange your appointment with Professor Rodda. A referral is still needed to claim the Medicare rebate on the surgical consultation, and the nurse practitioner can provide it.
Do I need surgery if I have knee arthritis?
Not necessarily. Many people with knee arthritis are managed well without surgery, using exercise, weight management, activity modification and medication. Surgery is considered when non-surgical options no longer control your symptoms and your quality of life is affected. The articles in each phase of this page walk through that decision in detail.
Am I too old for a knee replacement?
There is no upper age limit for knee replacement. What matters is your medical fitness, not your chronological age. Patients in their 80s and 90s undergo joint replacement safely when their general health allows. Professor Rodda assesses each patient individually, considering heart and lung health, bone quality, and overall function rather than age alone. Decisions are made together with you and your family, and with your GP and physician involved where needed.
Am I too young for a knee replacement?
There is no absolute lower age limit, but knee replacement in younger patients is considered carefully because implants have a finite lifespan. For patients in their 40s or 50s, Professor Rodda explores all non-surgical options first, and may consider partial knee replacement or other alternatives. When symptoms are severe enough to significantly impact quality of life and conservative measures have failed, surgery may be the right choice regardless of age.
How long is the wait for surgery?
Once you and Professor Rodda agree on surgery, a date is usually scheduled between six and twelve weeks away. This allows time for pre-admission checks, imaging and preparation. Sooner dates may be possible in urgent cases.
What health funds does Professor Rodda have no-gap arrangements with?
Professor Rodda participates in no-gap joint replacement arrangements with several health funds, including Medibank, Bupa, HCF and nib. What is covered varies by fund and by level of policy, and is best confirmed with the practice and your insurer before surgery.
