Mr James Donaldson, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Mr James Donaldson
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Mr James Donaldson MBBS BSc (Hons) FRCS (Tr&Orth)
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Mr James Donaldson
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon MBBS BSc (Hons) FRCS (Tr&Orth)
Mr Donaldson is a recommended Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Areas of expertise
- Primary hip replacement surgery
- Primary knee replacement surgery
- Complex primary hip and knee replacement surgery
- Revision hip replacement surgery
- Revision knee replacement surgery
Recommendations for Mr Donaldson
These recommendations are for information purposes only. Doctors providing recommendations do so in good faith and are not responsible for clinical outcomes.
Recommended by:
byDr Rikin Hargunani, Radiologist
❝Kind and thoughtful specialist and an exceptional orthopaedic surgeon who I rate highly and would have no hesitation in recommending to friends or family.❞
byDr Michael Khoo, Radiologist
❝Mr James Donaldson is a highly experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon with excellent clinical acumen for all hip and knee conditions.❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson, We had a short break in Cornwall last week and I was able to walk to the top of St. Michael’s Mount near Marazion which had challenging steps and beautiful gardens. It has been on my bucket list for a very long time. We also walked a lot and I managed eight to nine thousand steps each day. Without the two new knees and one hip operation this would not have been possible. I know that Starmer et al did etc but this doesn’t quite capture the difference you Medics make to peoples lives. I still do a Pilates class each week and am pleased to tell you that I’m able to kneel on both knees for a short while. So thank you very much for replacing some of my joints which has extended my active life. I hope my other hip remains good but if not I will be contacting you again. Very Best Wishes and Thank you❞
by AP
❝I would like to say a big thank you to the NHS service, the RNOH and all the staff members. Especially to you Dr James Donaldson for your professional conduct in caring approach. I have been in the past and still been well looked after for my ongoing joint issues along with my mental health challenges. I feel very fortunate to have my treatment at RNOH under the care of Mr J. Donaldson and team from consultation, physio therapy and operations/aftercare. My feelings is, I will gladly recommend this hospital to any one for their treatment. Once again thank you Dr J. Donaldson.❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson, This is just a brief note to thank you sincerely for all your advice, help and support with my hip issues since 2022! I was hoping to continue under your care later this year but for mainly logistical and financial reasons have opted to go for treatment in the North West. Very best wishes for your future career at the Wellington! Hope it all goes well. It has been delightful by the way to deal with Jo, always so helpful and pleasant. Kind regards and best wishes.❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson, Thank you so very much for my Hip replacement which you carried out last year on 17th December (3 days and 1 year later!) You told me my hip would be as good as new a few weeks post surgery, and of course you were absolutely right! I never have any problems with it at all, so I send you a huge Thank You for giving me back my mobility, which as you know, is most important to and for me. Thank you again, 1 year later!❞
by AP
❝I hope you don’t mind receiving this card. I just wanted to say how much I appreciate all your support, advice and help. I really do feel so very lucky to have had you as my consultant. You have an amazing “bed side manner” which has meant I feel at ease and valued as a person rather than a patient. That is such a remarkable skill. Thank you for your care.❞
by AP
❝Thank you. I now have quality of life back after such a long period of pain and discomfort thanks to your skill, care and consideration – it was so reassuring for my husband and myself to know that I was in such good hands from pre-op, the operation itself, and post-op. I would also add my appreciation of your anaesthetist, Mr Alex Salli.❞
by AP
❝I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for the excellent treatment I have received since I have been under your care. The operation on my right knee freed me from years of pain and I’m confident your skill will produce the same positive outcome for the other. Bless you.❞
by AP
❝Wishing you and your family Seasons greetings. Many thanks for sorting out and replacing my gammy hip! Kindly convey my best wishes to Jo and thank her too for always being so helpful.❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson I cannot tell you how much difference the surgery has made to my quality of life. It is so wonderful to be able to enjoy long walks again. With gratitude❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson I cannot tell you how much difference the surgery has made to my quality of life. It is so wonderful to be able to enjoy long walks again. With gratitude❞
by AP
❝Thank you so much for all your care and attention RNOH has given me in the last few years, whilst I have my 2 hips replaced.❞
byDr Rikin Hargunani, Radiologist
❝Kind and thoughtful specialist and an exceptional orthopaedic surgeon who I rate highly and would have no hesitation in recommending to friends or family.❞
byDr Michael Khoo, Radiologist
❝Mr James Donaldson is a highly experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon with excellent clinical acumen for all hip and knee conditions.❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson, We had a short break in Cornwall last week and I was able to walk to the top of St. Michael’s Mount near Marazion which had challenging steps and beautiful gardens. It has been on my bucket list for a very long time. We also walked a lot and I managed eight to nine thousand steps each day. Without the two new knees and one hip operation this would not have been possible. I know that Starmer et al did etc but this doesn’t quite capture the difference you Medics make to peoples lives. I still do a Pilates class each week and am pleased to tell you that I’m able to kneel on both knees for a short while. So thank you very much for replacing some of my joints which has extended my active life. I hope my other hip remains good but if not I will be contacting you again. Very Best Wishes and Thank you❞
by AP
❝I would like to say a big thank you to the NHS service, the RNOH and all the staff members. Especially to you Dr James Donaldson for your professional conduct in caring approach. I have been in the past and still been well looked after for my ongoing joint issues along with my mental health challenges. I feel very fortunate to have my treatment at RNOH under the care of Mr J. Donaldson and team from consultation, physio therapy and operations/aftercare. My feelings is, I will gladly recommend this hospital to any one for their treatment. Once again thank you Dr J. Donaldson.❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson, This is just a brief note to thank you sincerely for all your advice, help and support with my hip issues since 2022! I was hoping to continue under your care later this year but for mainly logistical and financial reasons have opted to go for treatment in the North West. Very best wishes for your future career at the Wellington! Hope it all goes well. It has been delightful by the way to deal with Jo, always so helpful and pleasant. Kind regards and best wishes.❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson, Thank you so very much for my Hip replacement which you carried out last year on 17th December (3 days and 1 year later!) You told me my hip would be as good as new a few weeks post surgery, and of course you were absolutely right! I never have any problems with it at all, so I send you a huge Thank You for giving me back my mobility, which as you know, is most important to and for me. Thank you again, 1 year later!❞
by AP
❝I hope you don’t mind receiving this card. I just wanted to say how much I appreciate all your support, advice and help. I really do feel so very lucky to have had you as my consultant. You have an amazing “bed side manner” which has meant I feel at ease and valued as a person rather than a patient. That is such a remarkable skill. Thank you for your care.❞
by AP
❝Thank you. I now have quality of life back after such a long period of pain and discomfort thanks to your skill, care and consideration – it was so reassuring for my husband and myself to know that I was in such good hands from pre-op, the operation itself, and post-op. I would also add my appreciation of your anaesthetist, Mr Alex Salli.❞
by AP
❝I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for the excellent treatment I have received since I have been under your care. The operation on my right knee freed me from years of pain and I’m confident your skill will produce the same positive outcome for the other. Bless you.❞
by AP
❝Wishing you and your family Seasons greetings. Many thanks for sorting out and replacing my gammy hip! Kindly convey my best wishes to Jo and thank her too for always being so helpful.❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson I cannot tell you how much difference the surgery has made to my quality of life. It is so wonderful to be able to enjoy long walks again. With gratitude❞
by AP
❝Dear Mr Donaldson I cannot tell you how much difference the surgery has made to my quality of life. It is so wonderful to be able to enjoy long walks again. With gratitude❞
by AP
❝Thank you so much for all your care and attention RNOH has given me in the last few years, whilst I have my 2 hips replaced.❞
Make an appointment
Address
-
The Wellington Hospital Elstree Waterfront
The Waterfront Business Park, Beaufort House, Elstree Road, Elstree, WD6 3BS
-
The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place, St John's Wood, London, NW8 9LE
About Mr James Donaldson
GMC number: 6050025
Year qualified: 2002
Place of primary qualification: University College London Medical School
Mr James Donaldson is a highly skilled consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in hip and knee surgery. Based at HCA Healthcare UK, he is recognised for his expertise in treating a wide range of joint conditions, including arthritis, fractures, and sports injuries. He has extensive experience in performing both primary and revision joint replacement surgeries, utilising the latest minimally invasive techniques to ensure faster recovery times and optimal patient outcomes.
Appointed in 2010, Mr Donaldson has been a key figure in the orthopaedic department where he also holds a leading role in training junior doctors and contributing to clinical research. He is particularly interested in advancements in robotic surgery and the development of patient-specific implants, aiming to enhance precision and long-term success in joint replacements.
Mr Donaldson is passionate about improving patient mobility and quality of life, focusing on individualised treatment plans that align with each patient’s unique needs. He is experienced in treating both complex and routine cases, including knee ligament reconstructions, cartilage restoration, and the management of degenerative joint disease.
When not in the operating theatre, Mr Donaldson is involved in medical research and regularly presents his findings at national and international conferences. He also enjoys mentoring the next generation of surgeons, ensuring they are equipped with the latest surgical skills and knowledge.
His commitment to his patients, combined with his innovative approach to surgery, has earned him a reputation as one of the leading orthopaedic surgeons in his field. Mr Donaldson continues to work closely with his multidisciplinary team to deliver comprehensive care, ensuring his patients receive the best possible outcomes.
Areas of expertise
- Arthroplasty
- Arthroscopic knee surgery
- Arthroscopic meniscectomy
- Complex and revision hip and knee replacement
- Degenerative joint disease
- Hip and knee pain limiting mobility or sleep
- Hip dysplasia
- Hip issues
- Hip osteoarthritis
- Hip pain
- Hip prosthesis
- Hip replacement
- Hoffa's syndrome
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Injuries diagnosis
- Joint problems following infection
- Joint failure following previous surgery
- Joint problems following trauma
- Joint preservation surgery
- Joint replacement
- Knee
- Knee arthritis
- Knee arthroscopy
- Knee cap replacement
- Knee issues
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Knee pain
- Knee replacement
- Knee surgery
- Meniscus
- Osteoarthritis of the hip
- Partial knee replacement
- Patellar luxation
- Patellar tendonitis (jumper's knee)
- Patellofemoral disorders
- Revision hip replacement
- Revision hip surgery
- Revision knee replacement
- Revision knee surgery
- Robotic assisted hip and knee surgeries
- Sports injuries
- Sports surgery
- Tendinopathy
- Tendon injuries
- Tendonitis
Frequently asked questions
Why do you do what you do?
I have always enjoyed orthopaedics because it allows me to fix problems in a very tangible way. With hip and knee surgery, you can often see immediate improvement - patients are up and walking the next day, and imaging confirms the improvement. Most patients return to clinic very pleased with the outcome, and that satisfaction, for both patient and surgeon, is what drew me to this specialty. I practise privately alongside my NHS role to offer the same standard of care to patients who wish to avoid long waiting times or who have private medical insurance.
What are the common symptoms that your patients tend to present with?
I commonly see two groups of patients. Younger patients often present with hip or knee pain limiting their ability to stay active or play sport, sometimes due to injury or overuse. Older patients tend to present with degenerative joint problems, struggling with walking, stairs, daily activities, or even sleep. Both groups benefit from careful assessment and a tailored treatment plan.
What are the treatments that you're able to offer your patients?
Assessment always begins with a detailed history and examination. I have access to on-site X-ray facilities, and where needed I can arrange ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans. Treatment starts conservatively with pain management, injections, and physiotherapy. If surgery is required, this may range from keyhole procedures to joint replacement, and where necessary, revision surgery.
What are your areas of sub-specialist interest?
I work in a tertiary referral orthopaedic hospital and manage both routine and complex cases. My sub-specialist interests include complex primary hip and knee replacement surgery and revision hip and knee surgery, particularly in patients with previous trauma, infection, or anatomical deformity.
Professional memberships
Articles by Mr James Donaldson
Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty: Past, Present and Future
Elastofibroma dorsi: management, outcome and review of the literature
The relationship between the presence of metallosis and massive infection in metal-on-metal hip replacements
Ischial screw fixation can prevent cup migration in 3D-printed custom acetabular components for complex hip reconstruction
The Outcomes of Hip and Knee Fungal Periprosthetic Joint Infections: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Satisfaction rates, function, and return to activity following young adult total hip arthroplasty
Distal femoral replacement for the treatment of periprosthetic distal femoral fractures around a total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis
Sheep condyle model evaluation of bone marrow cell concentrate combined with a scaffold for repair of large osteochondral defects
Current solutions for the treatment of chronic articular cartilage defects in the knee
Other specialists recommended by Mr Donaldson
Mr Rob Pollock, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon (Hip and Knee)
❝He has been a colleague for many years. He is an excellent surgeon involved with hip and knee surgeries and treating complex bone and soft tissue tumours.❞
Mr Eric Clarke, Specialist Sports & Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
❝Eric runs the practice and has many years of experience. He is always helpful and addresses each patient’s requirements individually.❞
Mr Jonathan Miles, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
❝I’ve known Mr Miles for many years. He is an excellent doctor and an excellent surgeon, particularly in revision knee surgery.❞
Mr Richard Carrington, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
❝I recommend him for all aspects of knee surgery, from minimally invasive to replacement surgery.❞
Mr Steven Berkman, Chartered Physiotherapist
❝Steve runs the practice and offers an excellent service to my patients whatever input is needed.❞
