Life After Double Knee Replacement

Bilateral knee replacement involves substituting both knees either concurrently or in two separate surgeries. Bilateral knee replacement is a surgical method that substitutes both knee joints with artificial implants to reduce acute pain and reinstitute mobility and function. The surgery may involve any combination of total knee replacement or partial knee replacement. When both knees are substituted at the same time, the surgery is referred to as a simultaneous bilateral knee replacement. When each knee is substituted at a different time, it’s named staged bilateral knee replacement. During knee replacement surgery, any impaired bone and cartilage are separated from the joint. This is subsequently, replaced with metal, ceramic or plastic parts. In this blog, Dr. Aashish Arbat a knee replacement doctor in Pune, an expert in using Advanced Technologies for Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy, Joint Conservation explains knee replacement bilateral. Knee Replacement Bilateral Bilateral Total Knee Replacement can give notable advantages for patients with acute arthritis in both knees, including decreased healing time and general cost savings. However, it also comes with increased risks, like a more demanding recovery and greater surgical issues. Tips on Surviving a Double Knee Replacement Be prepared for a long recovery process. It will take several months for your knees to fully heal. Follow your doctor’s orders. This includes physical therapy and other rehabilitation exercises. Be patient. Recovery from a double knee replacement can be slow and frustrating. Stay positive. Remember that you are taking steps to improve your quality of life. Ask for help. Get your leg, knee and muscles ready for surgery. Do your exercises even though it hurts. Refuse the urge to be sedentary. Ice religiously. Elevate even when you feel good. Work on your walking form. Take a pain pill or Tylenol substitute before exercises (and physical therapy). Early on focus on range of motion. Dr. Aashish Arbat, a reputed knee replacement surgeon in Pune, says life after double knee replacement can lead to significant improvements in mobility and quality of life. Life After Double Knee Replacement Recovery Time: Healing typically takes several weeks, and many patients can get back to light activities within 4 to 6 weeks. Mobility Boost: Patients generally experience less pain and increased mobility, allowing them to engage in daily activities more comfortably. Single Recovery Period: Having a double knee replacement means only one recovery period, which can be more efficient than having separate surgeries. Long-term Upshot: Many individuals report ongoing improvements in knee function and general quality of life for years after surgery. Personal Experiences: Personal stories highlight the journey of recovery and the positive changes in lifestyle post-surgery. Overall, while the recovery process can be testing, many find that the advantages of better mobility and reduced pain considerably add to their daily lives. How Long Should You Wait Between Knee Replacements? The waiting time between knee replacements is generally six to twelve weeks. Some patients may decide to get both knees done at once, while others may need to wait longer due to family and support considerations. It is important to consult with healthcare providers to determine the best timing for each individual. Is Second Knee Replacement Easier? The second knee replacement is generally more difficult than the first one.  The stress and the extra pain from the first replacement make it difficult for patients to go for the second one. Most importantly, it depends on the condition of the patient. If you are looking for a second knee replacement; speak to your ortho surgeon for better understanding. Staged Bilateral Knee Replacement Staged bilateral knee replacement is a method in which both knees are substituted in two separate surgeries. The surgeries are usually carried out several months apart, allowing one knee to heal before the second knee undergoes surgery. Each surgery lasts about two hours. The basic advantage of a staged procedure is the lesser risk of complications, including those related to the heart and deep veins. Simultaneous Bilateral Knee Replacement Dr. Arbat an Orthopedic Doctor Pune mentions that simultaneous bilateral knee arthroplasty has been popular because of its financial advantages, general resource usage, and comfortable for the patient. The training model where a trainee performs the first TKA, pursued by the trainer surgeon carrying out the second TKA, is a distinctive model. This study intends to inspect the clinical and functional results of bilateral simultaneous, when performed by a trainee or an expert surgeon. It also assesses the outcomes based on which side is done by the trainee or by the surgeon. Bilateral knee replacement Stories Sheetal was 49 when she went through bilateral knee replacement surgery. Frustrated of waking up each day with knee pain, she scheduled appointments with Dr. Aashish Arbat a knee doctor Pune to inquire about the surgery and was happy with his responses. When everyone told Sheetal that she was too young for knee replacement surgery and advised her to try to lose weight. “If your knees hurt, you really can’t exercise, and you can’t walk,” Sheetal explains. Thankfully, Dr. Arbat went for bilateral knee replacement surgery and Sheetal is now living a pain-free life, doing all types of daily activities without worrying about knee pain. Mr Agarwal, happily shared his inspiring knee replacement story of resilience and transformation. Mr Agarwal (65) is a yoga instructor who found himself in the unenviable position of needing two knee replacements. With the consent of Dr. Arbat Mr Agarwal did them both at the same time. One surgery. One recovery. It just made sense. A month later, after regular physiotherapy, he went back to his yoga institute. Conclusion After bilateral knee replacement, follow-up care is essential for proper recovery. Proper regular check-ups with your ortho surgeon, an organized rehabilitation program, and physiotherapy sessions can assure speedy recovery. A team of experts will monitor your progress and adjust your recovery plan as required. You’ll get customized guidance on how you can slowly increase your activity levels and tips for a healthy recovery at home. FAQ Can you walk after a double knee replacement?