Home Joint ReplacementBilateral Knee Replacement in India

Bilateral Knee Replacement in India

Simultaneous replacement of both knee joints in a single surgery

Overview

Bilateral Knee Replacement is an advanced surgical procedure where both knee joints are replaced during a single operation, rather than staging the surgeries months apart. This approach is suitable for patients with severe arthritis affecting both knees who are in good overall health and can tolerate a longer surgical procedure. At Arthoscenter, Dr. Gurudeo Kumar has performed over 150 successful bilateral knee replacements with excellent outcomes. Our comprehensive pre-operative screening ensures only appropriate candidates undergo this procedure, maintaining a 97% patient satisfaction rate and minimizing complications. The main advantages include undergoing anesthesia only once, a single recovery period, reduced overall hospital stays, and faster return to full mobility. However, bilateral replacement requires intensive post-operative care and rehabilitation. Dr. Kumar utilizes enhanced recovery protocols including multimodal pain management, early mobilization, and dedicated physiotherapy to optimize outcomes.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Severe arthritis pain in both knees

Bilateral knee deformity affecting mobility

Inability to walk or perform daily activities

Symmetrical joint damage in both knees

Failed conservative treatment for both knees

Good overall cardiovascular health

Strong motivation for intensive rehabilitation

No significant medical comorbidities

Procedure Details

Duration

2.5-4 hours

Anesthesia

General or Epidural Anesthesia

Preparation for Surgery

Extensive pre-operative evaluation including cardiac clearance, blood optimization, and anesthesia assessment. Pre-donation of blood may be arranged. Comprehensive education about post-operative expectations and rehabilitation requirements.

Surgical Steps

General or epidural anesthesia administered

Tourniquets applied to both legs

First knee prepared and replaced using standard technique

Tourniquet released and hemostasis achieved

Second knee prepared and replaced

Both knees tested for alignment and function

Drains placed if needed

Bilateral closure with sutures

Comprehensive dressing and ice therapy initiated

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Week 1-2

Intensive Hospital Care

Close monitoring, pain management, beginning physical therapy with walker. Both knees exercised simultaneously.

Week 3-6

Early Rehabilitation

Continued intensive physiotherapy. Gradual weight-bearing on both legs. Building strength and range of motion.

Week 6-12

Progressive Mobility

Increasing independence with mobility. Reduced use of assistive devices. Bilateral strengthening exercises.

Month 3-6

Functional Recovery

Most daily activities resumed. Continued bilateral strengthening program. Improved overall mobility.

Month 6-12

Full Recovery

Return to most normal activities. Ongoing maintenance exercises for both knees.

Tips for Faster Recovery

Strictly follow bilateral weight-bearing protocols

Attend every physical therapy session without fail

Use continuous passive motion machines as directed

Maintain adequate nutrition and hydration

Report any asymmetry in healing between knees

Avoid overworking one knee to compensate

Get assistance for transfers and daily activities initially

Stay patient - recovery takes longer than unilateral surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.Is bilateral knee replacement safe?

Yes, when performed on carefully selected patients with good overall health, bilateral knee replacement is safe. Dr. Kumar's comprehensive screening ensures only suitable candidates undergo this procedure, with complication rates comparable to staged surgeries.

Q2.Why choose bilateral over staged surgeries?

Benefits include single anesthesia exposure, one recovery period, reduced total hospital time, lower overall costs, and faster return to full bilateral function. However, it requires more intensive immediate post-op care.

Q3.Am I a good candidate for bilateral replacement?

Ideal candidates are under 75 years old, in good cardiovascular health, have severe arthritis in both knees, strong motivation, and no significant medical comorbidities. A thorough evaluation determines candidacy.

Q4.Is recovery harder than single knee replacement?

The immediate recovery is more intensive as both legs are affected simultaneously, requiring more assistance and dedication to therapy. However, the total recovery time is shorter than having two separate surgeries.

Q5.How long will I be in the hospital?

Typically 3-5 days, which is longer than single knee replacement but much shorter than the combined stay of two separate surgeries. This depends on progress and home support availability.

Q6.Will I need blood transfusion?

Modern techniques including tranexamic acid and cell saver technology minimize blood loss. Pre-operative blood optimization and possible autologous donation further reduce transfusion needs.

Q7.When can I return to normal activities?

Light activities resume within 6-8 weeks, driving at 6-8 weeks, return to work at 8-12 weeks depending on job demands, and full recovery typically takes 6-9 months.

Q8.What is Dr. Kumar's success rate?

Dr. Kumar has a 97% patient satisfaction rate with bilateral knee replacement, with excellent pain relief and functional outcomes. His careful patient selection and enhanced recovery protocols contribute to these results.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered

Book Consultation Now +91 72580 65424

Arthoscenter