There are two options to consider when it comes to replacing both your hips and there are benefits to each approach. Your options include:
- Double hip replacement (or simultaneous bilateral total hip replacement) in which both hip joints are replaced in one surgery.
- Two single hip replacements (or a staged bilateral total hip replacement) in which your hips are replaced in two separate surgeries.
Below are the pros and cons of each approach to help you decide which might be best for you.
Double hip replacement surgery
PROS
- Less total time spent in hospital
- Your rehabilitation period is faster overall, as you only need to recover once
- One stay in hospital
- Less total time off work
- One dose of anaesthesia
- Lower cost
CONS
- Your recovery period will be longer than for a single hip replacement, as you have two hips recovering
- You will need to rely on your arms to support your body as you heal
- More likely to need to stay in a rehabilitation centre afterwards
- Longer surgery timeframe
- As the surgery and anaesthesia are prolonged, there is a slight increase in risk of complication. However, these are uncommon
- This approach is not suitable for people with cardiovascular, pulmonary or other relevant health problems
Two single hip replacement surgeries
PROS
- You can rely on your other hip during recovery and between surgeries
- The surgeries are conducted months apart, so you have time to recover in-between
- Shorter visits to the hospital for each surgery
- Reduced risk of complications
- It can be easier to support yourself on crutches after surgery with one functioning hip
CONS
- The overall rehabilitation process can be longer, as you require a separate recovery period for each hip
- Recovery with one fully operable, new hip and one painful hip can be difficult
- More time off work
- Higher cost
Make sure you seek guidance from a professional before choosing the approach you prefer for your double hip replacement. As one of the top Orthopaedic Surgeons in Newcastle and the Hunter performing double and single hip replacement surgery using advanced technologies, Dr Stuart MacKenzie can help you get moving again.
