Areas of Practice
James is an orthopaedic surgeon with further training in the management of complex problems in children and adults.
Adult
Orthopaedics
James has focused on the care of the knee in adults and is experienced in joint replacement, ligament and meniscal surgery.
He performs partial and total knee replacement with modern techniques, including the use of robot-assisted surgery, with a strong focus on enhanced recovery after surgery protocols (ERAS). ERAS allows patients to wake after surgery with less pain, move earlier, reduce the risk of blood clots, leave hospital sooner and have less need for strong pain medications at home.
Enhancing post-operative recovery was one of James’ interests during his time working with Dr McEwen in Queensland. He focused on how to improve outcomes in knee surgery through pre-operative patient education, polished surgical techniques and the latest in post-operative care.
Paediatric orthopaedics
James has trained in general paediatric orthopaedics, and has additional extensive experience in complex disorders of the knee and hip from birth to adulthood.
Care of children is never simple and he believes that best outcomes in paediatrics only come through a team approach. Building bonds with family members and other carers is crucial while never losing focus on the small person in need.
trauma surgery
Dr Coulthard is one of the on-call orthopaedic surgeons at The New Maitland Hospital and performs surgery for all incoming orthopaedic emergency presentations.