Dr Donald Cawthorne
Hip & Knee SurgeonDr Donald Cawthorne is an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in robotic hip and knee surgery and sports knee surgery. With 14 years in orthopaedics, he sees patients through MTP Health for a range of hip and knee conditions — from osteoarthritis and joint degeneration to ACL and meniscal injuries and orthopaedic fractures.
Improving function and quality of life
He was drawn to the field by something quite simple: the chance to improve someone’s quality of life, sometimes in the space of a few hours. That focus on function and quality of life still shapes the way he practises today.
Dr Cawthorne commonly works with middle-aged patients and retirees experiencing hip and knee degeneration, as well as younger athletes with knee injuries.
A holistic approach to hip and knee care
Understanding the problem
His approach to a new patient is holistic. He considers the anatomical issue, the functional impairment it’s causing and the best way to address it, whether that’s surgical or non-surgical.
Shared decision-making
Any decision is made together, after an in-depth discussion of what’s happened, the possible outcomes of both surgical and non-surgical management, and the goals you’re working towards.
Clear explanations
Using x-rays, diagrams and models, he’ll help you understand what’s driving the problem before you build an evidence-based plan tailored to you.
Surgery isn’t always the answer
An appointment with a surgeon doesn’t mean you’re destined for an operation; quite often, it’s the opposite.
Hip and knee conditions across different stages of life
Dr Cawthorne sees patients for a range of hip and knee conditions — from osteoarthritis and joint degeneration to ACL and meniscal injuries and orthopaedic fractures.
Robotic joint replacement and sports knee surgery
His surgical expertise includes robotic hip and knee joint replacement, knee arthroscopy and ACL reconstruction — but he’s the first to point out that surgery isn’t always the answer.
Surgery is only one part of the journey
Understanding, expectations and optimisation
For Dr Cawthorne, a good recovery rests on three things: understanding the condition causing the problem, setting clear expectations for what you’re working towards, and recognising that surgery — if it’s needed at all — is only one part of the journey.
Optimising recovery before and after surgery
Pre-operative and post-operative optimisation matter just as much, which is why he works closely with MTP’s physiotherapists and exercise physiologists.
Working closely with the wider MTP team
Their knowledge of musculoskeletal management is, in his words, an integral part of either keeping patients away from surgery or making the most of recovery afterwards, with regular communication to monitor progress and adjust rehabilitation as needed.
Following developments in modern orthopaedic care
Technology in surgery and recovery
He follows developments in orthopaedic care closely, particularly the growing role of technology in improving results for patients both in surgery and beyond the operating theatre.
Helping patients return to the things they enjoy
What he finds most rewarding is seeing or hearing from patients who were once debilitated by their condition and are now back to the things they enjoy — sport, travel, or simply getting through daily life without pain.
Care built around function and quality of life
That focus on function and quality of life still shapes the way he practises today.
Education and professional memberships
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
- Bachelor of Medical Science
- Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)
- Member of the Australian Orthopaedic Association
Beyond the clinic
Outside of medicine, Dr Cawthorne spends his time with his wife and two young children, watching the footy and Formula 1, and — when the opportunity arises — visiting a brewery or two with friends.
Book an appointment with MTP Health
Take the next step with the MTP Health team and book an appointment at a time that suits you.