Bilateral Knee Replacement

Overview

Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints. It can affect a single joint or multiple joints, resulting in pain and stiffness in the affected area. The presence of these symptoms in one or both knees typically indicates the deterioration of cartilage in the joints. Knee replacement surgery is a procedure that can be performed to replace damaged joints and to relieve symptoms.

During knee replacement surgery, a surgeon replaces damaged areas of the knee joint with an artificial knee, also known as a prosthesis. Prostheses are typically constructed from metal, plastic, and ceramic. This solution can effectively restore nearly all functional capabilities of a damaged knee and provide long-term relief from arthritis-related discomfort.

What is Bilateral Knee Replacement Surgery?

In the event that severe arthritis affects both knees, a doctor may recommend bilateral knee replacement surgery – also known as double knee replacement surgery. It should be noted, however, that this type of surgery carries a higher level of risk. As a result, it is typically only recommended for those who meet the following criteria: 

• Physical fitness 
• Overall good health
• Willingness to commit to physical therapy and rehabilitation after surgery

Types of Double Knee Surgery

A double knee replacement may be performed as a single surgery or as two separate surgeries. A simultaneous bilateral knee replacement is when both knees are replaced at the same time. However, replacing each knee at a different time is called staged total knee replacement. Both surgeries can include any combination of total knee replacement or partial knee replacement.

Simultaneous bilateral knee replacement 

A simultaneous bilateral knee replacement is a procedure that involves replacing both knees during a single surgical session. One of the key benefits of this approach is that it allows patients to have a shorter hospital stay and a more concentrated rehabilitation period, focusing on healing both knees simultaneously. 

It is worth noting that rehabilitation may be a more gradual process, as it can be challenging to use both knees simultaneously. It is not uncommon for individuals who have undergone simultaneous bilateral knee surgery to require assistance at home during their recovery period.

It should be noted that simultaneous bilateral knee replacement does require more time and heavier doses of anesthesia, which may potentially increase the risk of complications. It is generally advised that this surgery should be avoided in those with heart conditions or lung disease. It is possible that individuals in these high-risk groups may experience heart problems or excessive blood loss during and after surgery.

Staged bilateral knee replacement

A staged bilateral knee replacement involves replacing both knees in two separate surgeries, performed a few months apart. Each surgery lasts approximately two hours.

This staged approach is the optimal way to ensure that one knee has sufficient time to recover before the second knee undergoes surgery.

The best part about a staged procedure is that it has a much lower risk of complications. Patients will also be back on their feet and out of the hospital in no time!

Please note that due to the two surgical procedures involved, the overall rehabilitation period may be longer than usual. This may result in a delay in your return to certain daily activities.

Bilateral Knee Replacement Risks

The potential risks associated with both simultaneous and staged bilateral knee replacement surgeries should be noted as follows:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Nerve damage
• Failure of the artificial joint
• The possibility of blood transfusion

It is more common for individuals over the age of 65 to experience complications from double knee replacement surgery. Additionally, men are at a higher risk for complications than women.

Recovery 

Following the surgical procedure, you will be transferred to the recovery room for a period of approximately three hours before being relocated to your assigned hospital room. After a staged double knee replacement, you are typically discharged from the hospital three to five days later. For simultaneous double knee replacement, the typical length of stay is up to 10 days. You will be provided with medication to manage any discomfort. 

During the course of your hospitalization, your physician will monitor for any indications of infection, the formation of blood clots, and other potential complications. Furthermore, your doctor will demonstrate low-intensity exercises that can enhance mobility and facilitate healing of the knees.

You'll start physical therapy sometimes within a few hours of surgery, which is great because it means you can begin transitioning back to normal knee movement really quickly!

Most physical therapy programs are between six and 12 weeks. It may take longer depending on how you're doing and if you have any pre-existing physical conditions. 

Your physical therapy program is going to be just what you need to get back to your best! It will include a walking plan and various knee-strengthening exercises to boost mobility, as well as techniques to restore motion to the knee.

We know you're eager to get back to your normal routine, but it's so important to follow your physical therapist and doctor's instructions during your rehabilitation period. We're so excited for your complete recovery from your double knee replacement surgery! Your adherence to the instructions from your physical therapist and doctor will help make that happen.

Turkey Luxury Clinics

Over 90 percent of people who undergo knee replacement surgery say it improves their pain. For most people, knee replacement is a total game-changer! It provides much-needed pain relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life. And the best part? Most knee replacements can be expected to last at least 15 to 20 years!

Contact Turkey Luxury Clinics today to speak with our experienced orthopedic team. They will be happy to provide you with a consultation on your case and recommend the optimal solution.

No matter which option you choose, your overall health, the severity of knee damage, and personal preferences will play a role in determining the best course of action.

• How long does it take to recover from bilateral knee replacement?

The recovery period for bilateral knee replacement surgery varies from person to person, with an average of 3-6 months for full recovery. This time frame includes the hospital recovery period, rehabilitation, and gradual return to normal activities.

• Can I walk after bilateral knee replacement? 

It is not only feasible but also recommended to engage in walking as part of the recovery process following bilateral knee replacement surgery. It is possible that you will require the use of a walker or crutches initially. As your strength and mobility improve, you will be able to walk with greater independence. Regular walking is an effective method for facilitating recovery and restoring knee function.