Pros and Cons of Double Knee Replacement

If you have moderate to severe arthritis in both knees, performing many routine activities, such as going to the store, walking your dog, or moving around the house, can be very painful. Eventually, you may find that knee replacement surgery is necessary to restore a pain-free life.

If you need a knee replacement in both knees, you have two different options. You can undergo two separate surgical procedures over several months to perform each knee replacement separately, allowing for full recovery of the first knee before the second procedure. You can also undergo double knee replacement, which involves having both knees replaced simultaneously. Both options have pros and cons, so it’s important to understand the differences between them before deciding which approach is right for you.

Benefits of Double Knee Replacement

Double knee replacement, also called bilateral knee replacement, offers a variety of important benefits compared to undergoing two separate knee replacement procedures. These include:

• Less time spent in the hospital – Since both procedures are being performed at the same time, you will only have to stay in the hospital once.
• Less time off work – Similarly, having both procedures performed simultaneously means you’ll only require one recovery period instead of two. This means you’ll be able to take less time off work.
• Less time in physical therapy – You’ll need to attend regular physical therapy sessions for several months after knee replacement. When you undergo double knee replacement, these sessions are focused on rehabbing both knees. When you have separate procedures, you will need twice as many physical therapy sessions spread out over a longer period of time.
• Shorter time to regain physical activity level – Double knee replacement requires one rehab period, allowing you to resume normal activities much faster. When these procedures are performed separately, you’ll have to start from the beginning just as you feel like the first knee is fully recovered. This delays your ability to enjoy your favorite activities.
• Reduced cost – Two surgical procedures requiring two hospital stays will always cost more than one Patients undergoing double knee replacement typically save 18-26% on their out-of-pocket costs compared with individuals performing the procedures separately.

Drawbacks of Double Knee Replacement

Most of the drawbacks associated with double knee replacement are due to increased risks that come with having a more extensive surgical procedure performed. These include:

• Increased blood loss – Double knee replacement results in greater blood loss. In fact, roughly 40% of double knee replacement patients require a blood transfusion compared to 12% of patients having their knees replaced in separate procedures.
• Increased risk of complications – Double knee replacement is a very safe procedure, and complications are rare. However, the risk of complications such as blood clots or infections is higher when both procedures are performed simultaneously.
• Longer surgery time – Replacing both knees simultaneously requires a longer surgical procedure than replacing just one knee. This means you’re spending more time under anesthesia, which can potentially increase your risk of complications.
• More difficult recovery – You won’t have a stable leg to stand on after double knee replacement. This makes mobility, basic activities and physical therapy more challenging during the initial phases of your recovery.
• Potential for inpatient rehab stay – Roughly two-thirds of double knee replacement patients must spend time in an inpatient rehab center after surgery, compared to one-quarter of single knee replacement patients. Keep in mind that there are also benefits associated with staying at an inpatient rehab center, such as round-the-clock care and on-site physical therapy. However, many patients prefer to recover in the comfort of their own homes.

Pros and Cons of Two Separate Knee Replacement Procedures

As with double knee replacement, there are pros and cons to undergoing two separate procedures. The benefits of having two separate knee replacements primarily relate to having a less extensive procedure performed. Your surgery time will be shorter, and you’ll experience a slightly easier recovery period for each knee (but will need to go through two separate recoveries). In addition, the risk of surgical complications is slightly lower when you opt for two procedures.

The primary drawback of having each knee replaced separately is putting yourself through two surgeries and two recoveries. Once you’ve finished the rehab on your first knee and feel better, you’ll have to go through the entire process again. Depending on your lifestyle, being physically limited for such an extended period may be less desirable than going through a more challenging recovery but being fully healed much sooner.

Raising the Bar for Knee Replacement on the Western Slope

The skill and experience of your surgical team are critical to achieving the best possible outcome when undergoing knee replacement surgery. At Colorado Advanced Orthopedics (CAO), we’ve developed a reputation as the premier orthopedic clinic on the Western Slope, and we can ensure you receive the exceptional care you deserve.

Our team comprises some of the finest board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons in the area. Dr. Kevin Borchard specializes in joint replacement surgery and performs all knee replacement procedures at CAO.  During your consultation, he’ll discuss the pros and cons of both options (separate procedures vs. double knee replacement) and recommend the ideal approach based on your unique condition and medical history. He has extensive experience performing double knee replacements and achieves excellent results.

Dr. Borchard’s specialized training in knee replacement surgery, combined with his use of advanced technology such as the Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery System, has enabled him to deliver some of the best knee replacement results along the Western Slope. Patient data from Stryker Orthopaedics found that Dr. Borchard consistently achieves knee replacement surgical outcomes that exceed industry standards in various metrics. When your knee replacement is performed at CAO, you’ll have peace of mind that you’re receiving the best possible care available.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Colorado Advanced Orthopedics serves patients in Meeker, the White River Valley and throughout the Western Slope.