Understanding the impact of wait times on hip and knee replacement patients

The WHERE Study: Waiting for Hip and KneE REplacement - A Prospective Cohort

Observational London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's · NCT06074900

This study looks at how wait times for hip and knee replacements affect patients' health and recovery to help create better care plans for them.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment3008 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorLondon Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's Academic / other
Locations1 site (London, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT06074900 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the relationships between wait times for total hip and knee replacements and various patient characteristics, including sex, gender, socioeconomic status, and psychological distress. By tracking patients awaiting these surgeries, the study seeks to identify those at high or low risk of deterioration in their condition. The goal is to develop targeted care plans that address the needs of patients based on their unique trajectories of symptoms and recovery. This prospective cohort study will provide valuable insights into how wait times affect patient outcomes and inform better management of surgical waitlists.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with primary osteoarthritis of the hip or knee.

Not a fit: Patients with arthritis other than osteoarthritis, previous joint replacements, or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved care strategies for patients awaiting hip and knee replacements, ultimately enhancing their recovery and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored similar themes, this prospective longitudinal approach to understanding wait times and patient outcomes in TJR is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Aged 18 years and older;
2. Primary OA of the hip or knee (as defined by the American College of Rheumatology)60,61;
3. Provision of informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Hip or knee arthritis other than OA;
2. Previous TJR or retained hardware on the ipsilateral side;
3. Refusal to participate;
4. Inability to provide informed consent;
5. Likely to have problems maintaining follow-up in the opinion of the investigator (i.e. no fixed address, severe mental disorders or additions without adequate support
6. Inability to speak or understand English without a registered interpreter

Where this trial is running

London, Ontario

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hip OsteoarthritisKnee OsteoarthritisTJRHipKneeOsteoarthiritisWait timesTotal hip replacement
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.