Article
Is knee replacement right for you? key factors explained
Knee pain can be debilitating, affecting mobility, daily activities, and overall quality o...
Professional statement
Mr Daniel Dowen is an experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeon based in Washington, practising at Spire Washington Hospital. He specialises in hip and knee joint replacement surgery, with a particular interest in complex and revision procedures, including the management of patients with painful or failing joint replacements due to causes such as implant loosening, wear, or infection. He also performs arthroscopic (keyhole) knee surgery and is actively involved in general orthopaedic trauma surgery within his NHS practice.
His elective practice focuses on the assessment and treatment of a broad spectrum of hip and knee conditions. These include osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, bursitis, and a range of musculoskeletal injuries such as meniscal tears. He regularly treats patients presenting with hip, groin, gluteal and buttock pain, as well as conditions such as iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome. In addition, he offers joint injection therapies and manages tendon-related disorders and sports injuries affecting the hip and knee.
Mr Dowen has a particular interest in complex hip pathology, including avascular necrosis (AVN) and Perthes disease, and is experienced in assessing and managing leg length discrepancy, often secondary to underlying hip conditions.
He was born and educated in Durham City and graduated from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne in 2005. His surgical training was completed in the North East of England, followed by a specialist fellowship in lower limb joint replacement in Auckland, New Zealand.
Mr Dowen also holds a higher degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Leeds, completed in 2000. This academic foundation has supported a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, and he is a named author on over 20 peer-reviewed publications. He currently works within the NHS at Sunderland and South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust, where he serves as Clinical Lead for Trauma and Orthopaedics.
He is dedicated to delivering a patient-centred approach, emphasising clear communication, shared decision-making, and openness throughout the patient journey.
For further information, visit Mr Dowen's website.
Clinics
Spire Washington Hospital
Picktree Ln, Rickleton, Washington NE38 9JZ, UK, WashingtonMedical insurances accepted
Credentials
Professional experience
- 21 years of experience
- Consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Spire Washington Hospital
Subspecialties
- Total hip replacement
- Total knee replacement
Professional memberships
- Lower Limb Arthroplasty Fellowship, Auckland City Hospital (2015)
- Royal College of Surgeons of England
Education
- FRCS, Royal College of Surgeons of England (2014)
- MRCS, Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (2008)
Teaching posts
- AO Teaching Faculty member
Positions in organisations
- Department lead for orthopaedic research, City Hospitals Sunderland
- Clinical lead for trauma orthopaedic department, Sunderland and South Tyneside NHS Trust
Publications and conferences
- Mr Dowen's publications are available on ResearchGate|https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Daniel-Dowen-54187723
Prizes and awards
- Research Delivery Award (2024)
- Clinical Excellence Award (2023)
Languages spoken
- English
Registration number: 6114814
Content
Health content
Other information
Reviews
All reviews are from real patients and have been verified by our Customer Service department to ensure they meet our guidelines. Rules of the service
- Would you recommend this doctor?
- Treatment of the doctor
- Treatment of the staff
- Waiting time
- Condition of facilities
- Had right knee replacement, all treatment was first class, so have now come back to Mr Dowen for a left knee replacement
- I had a full right knee replacement on 2/9/26 performed by Mr Dowen and his team at The Spire, Washington. The whole experience, from start to finish has been faultless. On the day of my surgery, all procedures were explained fully and the surgery itself, went superbly well. Pain management, post surgery was excellent. Within 3 weeks post surgery, I was able to walk without crutches, and continued to improve week on week. I cannot thank Mr Dowen enough for his excellent work.
- Excellent result from start to finish, total knee replacement.
- Recently had a hip replacement performed by Mr Dowen and couldn’t be more impressed with the care received. From the initial consultation through to post‑operative follow‑ups, he was thorough, reassuring, and highly professional. He took time to explain the procedure clearly, answered all my questions and ensured I felt confident going into surgery. The operation went well and recovery has been far better than expected. Would strongly recommend Mr Dowen to anyone requiring orthopaedic surgery.
- I would like to thank my consultant and the entire team for the excellent care I received throughout my two knee replacement procedures. From the initial consultation through to the operations and follow-up care, I was treated with kindness, professionalism and respect. Both procedures were handled extremely well, and I am very grateful for the improvement they have made to my mobility and quality of life. I felt well informed and supported at every stage. I would highly recommend my consultant
- Treated very well, from start to finish, and advice on further treatment. X
- Had an app for right replacement to see Dr Dowen, and I struck luck, very professional, caring, from start to finish a lovely professional. explains everything, answers all questions. After care clinic great, makes sure I’m happy with everything. Sunderland Royal staff very nice , pleasant, professional. Wards very clean.
- I had my hip replaced and was worried however Mr Dowen’s approach meant there was no need for concern, my recovery and aftercare were brilliant as well. Thank you
- Would 100% recommend this hospital. I cannot fault it or the staff - absolutely outstanding
- Excellent friendly professional manner with clear and concise information .