Bilateral Knee Replacement: What You Need to Know About Replacing Both Knees

bilateral knee replacement

When it comes to knee pain and immobility, many people try conservative treatments like physical therapy, pain medications, or injections before considering surgery. However, for individuals suffering from severe osteoarthritis or injury affecting both knees, a bilateral knee replacement may prove to be the most advisable move for reactivating movement and enhancing well-being.

At Tarabichi Joint Care, we understand the complexities of knee replacement surgery and are here to guide you through the journey. In this blog, we’ll explore what bilateral knee replacement is, its benefits and risks, and why this surgery might be right for you.

What is Bilateral Knee Replacement?

Bilateral knee replacement surgery is where both knees are replaced with artificial joints during one operating session. This is a more complex procedure than a single knee replacement in Dubai but is often recommended for patients who need both knees replaced due to similar conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or knee injuries.

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Tarabichi Joint Care

At Tarabichi Joint Care, we are dedicated to offering world-class orthopedic care with a focus on joint health and comprehensive rehabilitation. Founded by the renowned Dr. Samih Tarabichi, a pioneer in joint replacement in Dubai, our center stands as a beacon of excellence in the Middle East and beyond. With cutting-edge technologies, a patient-centered approach, and a team of highly specialized professionals, we strive to enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from joint-related conditions.

Two Forms of Bilateral Knee Replacement Exist:

Simultaneous Bilateral Knee Replacement

This procedure involves replacing both knees in a single surgery.

In a simultaneous bilateral knee replacement, both knees are operated on during the same surgery. The primary benefit of this approach is that you only need one hospital stay and a single rehabilitation period for both knees.

However, recovery may be slower because you’re healing from surgery on both knees at the same time. Many patients who opt for this procedure require assistance at home during their recovery. 

Additionally, the surgery takes longer, usually about three to four hours, compared to the two-hour duration of staged procedures. Since simultaneous bilateral knee replacement involves a longer surgery time and heavier anesthesia, there is a higher risk of complications. 

This method is generally not recommended for patients with heart or lung conditions, as these high-risk groups could face complications such as heart issues or significant blood loss during or after the procedure.

Staged Bilateral Knee Replacement

This process involves replacing each knee in two different surgeries. Depending on the patient’s condition, both methods may involve total or partial knee replacement.

Staged bilateral knee replacement involves replacing each knee in two separate surgeries spaced a few months apart. Each surgery typically lasts around two hours, allowing one knee to heal before the second one is treated.

The primary benefit of this staged procedure is the reduced risk of complications and shorter hospital stay. However, since it requires two surgeries, the overall recovery time can be longer, which may delay your return to normal activities. While the first knee recovers, the second surgery will be performed later, extending the overall rehabilitation period.

The Benefits of Bilateral Knee Replacement

The decision to undergo double knee replacement surgery can be life-changing. There are numerous benefits to having both knees replaced at the same time, including:

Improved mobility: Patients usually notice an enhancement in walking, standing, and everyday activities once recovered.

Reduced recovery time: One surgery means a single recovery period, making the process more efficient than multiple surgeries.

Better balance: Replacing both knees together helps restore a more balanced gait than replacing just one knee.

Long-term benefits: Patients, in most cases, have less pain, better function, and greater mobility in activities such as walking, cycling, and swimming.

Cost efficiency: While the initial cost may be higher, it can be more affordable in the long run due to fewer surgeries, hospital stays, and related expenses.

Dr Mohamed Elfekky Director Tarabichi Joint Care Enhanced Recovery Institute has introduced a new technique to freeze the pain nerves for the 6 months needed to complete this recovery journey without pain.

Dr. Samih Tarabichi, A pioneer knee surgeon in Dubai, is dedicated to improving mobility, restoring quality of life, and transforming the future of orthopedic care.

Risks and Considerations of Double Knee Replacement Surgery

As with any surgery, double knee replacement surgery also has risks of its own, and one needs to carefully weigh the risks versus the potential gains. Risks involved with bilateral knee replacement include:

Longer surgery time: Operating on both knees takes longer, increasing the duration under anesthesia and the risk of complications.

Challenging recovery: Healing from two surgical sites at once can be tougher, though modern pain management can help ease discomfort.

Risk of blood clots: Double surgery raises the possibility of blood clots, but measures such as blood thinners and early mobilization can lower this risk.

Post-surgical risks: Infection, delayed healing, or joint instability are possible complications, but these can be avoided with a good surgeon and proper post-operative care.

Before deciding to undergo bilateral knee replacement, your surgeon will evaluate your health, knee condition, and overall ability to tolerate surgery. If you have significant medical issues like heart disease or obesity, staged bilateral knee replacement may be recommended to reduce the risk.

Is Double Knee Replacement Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision to undergo bilateral knee replacement should be made in consultation with a trusted orthopedic surgeon Dubai who will consider your specific condition, health status, and goals for recovery.

If you experience significant pain and disability in both knees, have failed conservative treatments, and are in generally good health, double knee surgery could dramatically improve your life.

Why choose Tarabichi Joint Care for Double Knee Replacement in Dubai?

Tarabichi Joint Care is renowned for providing exceptional care to patients seeking double knee replacement in Dubai. With the best orthopedic experts and the latest surgical procedures, we are confident that offer the finest results to our patients. 

Our state-of-the-art facilities, personalized treatment plans, and focus on patient comfort make us a leading choice for knee replacement surgeries. Additionally, Dubai’s status as a hub for medical tourism allows you to recover in a city known for its world-class amenities, making your healing journey effective and comfortable.

Contact Tarabichi Joint Care for Knee Pain Treatment in Dubai

Understanding the impact of knee pain on day to day activities, Orthopedic in Dubai provides expert care with a team of specialized knee surgeon in Dubai.

From getting a clear diagnosis to creating a treatment and rehabilitation plan that suits your goals, we focus on what really matters—helping you recover fully and get back to doing what you love, whether it’s playing sports or simply staying active.

Trust Tarabichi Joint Care for expert care and a seamless experience in your knee replacement journey.

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Get Your Appointment For Expert Joint Care

At Tarabichi Joint Care, we are dedicated to providing exceptional orthopedic treatment in Dubai. We specialize in the Enhanced Recovery Program, which emphasizes on quicker healing post-surgery. If you’re considering knee replacement surgery, let us help you on your journey to pain-free living.

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