Reducing Inappropriate Surgery of the Knee
RISK

Osteoarthritis (OA) affects almost 10 per cent of the Australian population – more than 2.2 million people – and costs the health system $2.1 billion annually. Non-surgical care delivered by physiotherapists using a prescribed exercise program, education and weight management support can substantially delay or prevent two thirds of knee replacement surgeries occurring in Australia each year, saving between $120 and $300 million.

This project will look at how improved access to physiotherapy led care can delay or even negate the need for surgery in the Victorian Public Hospital System. We will also evaluate the impact of this care on patients’ quality of life and pain, and look at the potential cost saving in reducing the need for surgery, pain medications and other treatments.

** Start of this project has been delayed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic **