Retired Harpist Returns to Playing After Double Hip Replacement at Spire Cardiff Hospital

• Double hip replacement restores mobility and independence for 82-year-old Cardiff patient 

At Spire Cardiff Hospital we are proud to offer an Orthopaedic Centre of Excellence; a multi-disciplinary team working to the highest standards of Orthopaedic patient care. The team was recently awarded the National Joint Registry (NJR) Quality Data Gold level award for its fifth consecutive year, highlighting the hospital’s commitment to strong governance. The facilities are led by our specialist Consultants and an experienced clinical team, dedicated to helping patients with their bone and joint issues.

One such patient was Mr John Lewis Thomas, 82-year-old retired teacher and harpist. John started finding it difficult to walk, doing daily chores and pushing the pedals of his harp was a challenge. Seven years later, and after six months on the NHS waitlist, John decided to contact Spire Cardiff Hospital, making an appointment for himself in August 2024. John recalls, "I depended on my wheelchair for moving more than about 20 meters from my house. I went on a cruise three months before my first operation and had to be pushed around the ship in my wheel chair."

Mr Peter Lewis, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon referred John to have an X-ray. “The results of the X-ray identified severe osteoarthritis of both of his hips, meaning a complete loss of cartilage covering of his hips and with bone rubbing on bone.” Mr Lewis says.

John elected to self-pay a right total hip replacement to begin with, which took place at Spire Cardiff Hospital in August 2024. A hip replacement is a common operation to remove worn or damaged parts of your hip joint and replace them with an artificial joint to help you move more easily and to reduce pain. Conditions such as osteoarthritis or a hip fracture can make it hard to manage everyday tasks eg getting dressed, having a bath or walking. John returned to Spire again in March 2025 for a consultation with Mr Peter Lewis about his other hip. Following this, John had his left hip replacement at Spire Hospital shortly after in May 2025.

In his own words John made an excellent recovery with both hips replacement and is now able to play the harp comfortably once again. Reflecting on his experience, John comments “All the staff in every department were excellent, I’m so happy that all had gone well. I can move more easily, join in with group activities with family and general daily life.”

“If I could give any advice to others, it is to not hesitate. Go ahead and get the help now”

John Lewis Thomas back playing the harp after successful double hip replacement surgery at Spire Cardiff Hospital

Spire Cardiff Hospital’s Orthopaedic Centre of Excellence provides specialist assessment and treatment for a wide range of bone and joint conditions. To learn more about available treatments and consultant-led care, visit the Bones and Joints section.