At the most recent American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons’ annual meeting in San Diego, California, in February 2011, there were several papers discussing the pros versus cons of simultaneous bilateral knee replacement. Most authors agree that this is a suitable option in younger, healthier, non-obese patients who have bilateral severe osteoarthritis of the knee. It seems to be contraindicated in patients over 70, obese individuals, and patients with a history of coronary or pulmonary disease. The early rehab is more challenging with bilateral knee replacements and the patient’s rehabilitation is slowed by about two weeks, but the amount of pain is very similar after the second postoperative day, and patients do not have to return for a second knee replacement. Whether or not you would be a suitable candidate is something you would determine with the assistance of your orthopedic surgeon.
There are some interesting points in time in this article but I don’t know if I see all of them center to heart. There is some validity but I will take hold opinion until I look into it further. Good article , thanks and we want more! Added http://www.valleymed.org to FeedBurner as well
I will turn 69 on 3/8/12 and am considering bilateral knee replacement this year. I wondered if Dr. Barrett uses computer assisted surgery methods and minimally invasive techniques in his knee replacements? I know he gets terrific results. Two people at my tennis club used him (ed hatch was one) with great results.