There are two options to consider when you require two knees to be replaced:
- Staged bilateral knee replacement in which your knees are replaced in two separate, single knee replacement surgeries.
- Double knee replacement surgery in which both knees are replaced in the same operation.
As with any medical treatment, there are pros and cons to each approach.
Two single knee replacement surgeries
PROS
- The staged approach allows one knee to recover before the second surgery
- The surgeries are conducted months apart, giving you time to recover in-between
- Shorter visits to the hospital
- Reduced risk of complications
Cons
- The overall rehabilitation process can be much longer
- Total time spent recovering is longer as there are two operations to recover from
- In between operations, your second knee that has not yet been replaced will need to work harder, which will be difficult if it is in poor condition
- Higher cost
- More time off work
Double knee replacement surgery
PROS
- Less total time spent in hospital
- One rehabilitation period is faster overall
- One stay in hospital
- One dose of anaesthesia
- Less total time off work
Cons
- Because the surgery and anaesthesia is prolonged, there is a slight increase in complications. However, these are uncommon
- It is not recommended for patients with heart or lung disease
- Stay in a rehabilitation centre afterwards is more likely
- Longer surgery time
- More painful recovery
Whether you choose to have your knees replaced simultaneously or separately, it’s important to seek guidance from a professional before deciding. As one of the top Orthopaedic Surgeons in Newcastle and the Hunter performing double and single knee replacement surgery using advanced technologies, you can call our office if you would like more advice.
