What is a bilateral total knee
replacement?
When both knees are replaced at the same time, the procedure is a bilateral
total knee replacement. The simultaneous procedure refers to replacing both
knees during one surgical event, under one anesthesia followed by a single
rehabilitation period. A staged surgical procedure means that the second
knee is replaced at a later period several months apart, requiring two
separate hospital stays, anesthesias, and rehabilitation periods.
If I have one knee replaced does this indicate I will definitely be in
need of replacing the other?
No. Often only one knee is affected and the other completely normal.
Sometimes the other knee is also affected either as severely or not as
badly. The surgeon can inform you of the likelihood if the other knee will
need to be replaced in the future.
Will I loose a great deal of motion if I discontinue my exercise program
given to me in physical therapy?
How high at risk you are for losing range of motion will depend how active
you are with your new knee. If you are relatively active with bending and
straightening you probably will not lose a significant amount if any.
However, if you lead a sedentary lifestyle it is best to continue with all
of the flexibility and strengthening exercises at least 3 times per week to
maintain range of motion and strength.
