Back in the Crowd: knee surgery restores patient’s love of music concerts

• Spire Little Aston Hospital patient celebrates quick recovery following Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement 

Mr Colin Robey, a 76-year-old patient has returned to full mobility and an active lifestyle following a successful Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement at Spire Little Aston Hospital in March 2025, performed by Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Mohammad Javed Iqbal. 

Mr Robey had experienced worsening knee pain over several years, which began to seriously affect his mobility and his ability to attend music concerts - one of his greatest passions. 

Explaining why he chose Spire Little Aston Hospital, Mr Robey said: “My wife had her hip replaced here on the NHS and we were very happy with the outcome. I didn’t want to wait on an ever-extending timescale, so I decided to self-fund my operation and asked to see the same surgeon, Mr Iqbal.” 

Reflecting on his experience of surgery, he said: “The operation went very well - far better than I had been led to believe it might be. The staff on the ward were excellent, and the physiotherapy was spot on.” 

Mr Robey described his post-surgery recovery as positive and faster than expected. 

“The first ten days after surgery were quite painful, but the more I pushed myself, the quicker it improved. I was off all painkillers after six weeks and kept up with the prescribed exercises. I had been told to expect a movement of 0 to 90 degrees, but I’ve achieved 0 to 130 degrees.”

Since recovering, Mr Robey has been able to return to activities he previously enjoyed. 

“I’m fully mobile again and able to get back to concerts. I’ve been to see Oasis at Wembley, Jeff Lynn's ELO concert in Birmingham, theatre trips in London and even two cruise holidays. The operation has made a huge difference to my quality of life.” 

Colin Robey (right) attending an Oasis concert at Wembley Stadium with his son Chris following knee surgery

Mr Mohammad Javed Iqbal, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Spire Little Aston Hospital said: “It is always rewarding to see patients like Mr Robey regain their quality of life. The precision of the Mako robotic-assisted system allows us to deliver excellent results, and I am delighted with his recovery and outcome.”

Vicky Morris, Hospital Director at Spire Little Aston Hospital added: “At Spire Little Aston Hospital we are committed to helping patients get back to doing what they love. Mr Robey’s story is a fantastic example of how innovative technology, combined with expert care, can transform lives.”