Approximately 100,000 primary knee replacements are performed in the UK each year. There has been increasing focus on enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programmes aimed at reducing complications and improving patient functional outcomes, with a consequent reduction in length of stay. Management of patients expectations preoperatively have been shown to be very important in providing better improvement of pain and function postoperatively. As part of ERAS programmes, management of postoperative pain control is essential to help promote early mobilization, compliance in rehabilitation with physiotherapists and minimizing the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). We focus this review on VTE prophylaxis, perioperative management of anticoagulation, rehabilitation and follow-up. In conclusion, success in ERAS programmes is heavily reliant on strong collaboration within the multidisciplinary team consisting of orthopaedic surgeons, anaesthetists, physiotherapists, nurses and occupational therapists. All of the above provide simultaneous patient-centred care.