Hip and knee replacement surgery in obese patients.

No body mass index (BMI) threshold will be placed on patients who require immediate referral for total knee and hip replacement surgery for clinical reasons. However, patients with a BMI of 35 or more will be actively supported to engage with local weight management programmes to reduce their BMI to maximise the functional benefit of surgery and reduce the risk of complications during or following surgery.

Policy published: 22 June 2011