Last Updated on November 18, 2025 by Ugurkan Demir

For those with severe bilateral hip disease, simultaneous bilateral hip replacement can change their life. Facing double hip surgery might seem scary, but with the right info and a good medical team, patients can feel more confident.

Medical experts at Rothman Orthopaedics say that in this procedure, both hips are replaced at once. This means only one hospital stay and one recovery time. It’s good for those with bad hips on both sides.

At Liv Hospital, we offer top-notch healthcare and support for patients from abroad. Our team works hard to make sure patients know the good and facts about bilateral hip replacement. We aim to give them the best care possible.

Key Takeaways

• Simultaneous bilateral hip replacement involves replacing both hips in one operation.
• This procedure can be beneficial for patients with severe bilateral hip disease.
• There is one hospitalization and one recovery period.
• Liv Hospital provides extensive support for international patients.
• Our team is committed to helping patients understand the benefits and facts about bilateral hip replacement.

What Is Bilateral Hip Replacement?

Simultaneous bilateral hip replacement is a complex surgery. It replaces both hip joints in one session. This is for patients with severe hip arthritis or other hip problems in both hips.

By doing both hips at once, patients might have a shorter recovery time. They also get to go through rehabilitation together.

Definition and Basic Procedure

Bilateral hip replacement means both hip joints are replaced with artificial ones. The surgery is done under general or spinal anesthesia. A skilled orthopedic surgeon and a team are needed for the best results.

The damaged hips are removed and new ones are put in. This includes a stem, ball, and socket. The aim is to fix the hip, stop pain, and improve life quality.

How It Differs from Single Hip Replacement

The main difference is the surgery’s scope. Single hip replacement only does one hip. Bilateral does both hips at once.

Patients with bilateral hip replacement have a longer, more complex recovery. But, they get both hips treated at once. This can lead to fewer complications than doing each hip separately.

Fact 1: When Double Hip Surgery Is Recommended

Orthopedic surgeons often suggest double hip surgery for advanced bilateral hip arthritis. This condition severely affects both hips, making daily tasks hard. It impacts the quality of life greatly.

Advanced Bilateral Hip Arthritis

Bilateral hip arthritis means both hips’ joints are degenerating. This leads to pain, stiffness, and less mobility. Severe arthritis causes cartilage loss, leading to bone-on-bone contact, which is very painful.

Rothman Orthopaedics says severe arthritis in both hips is the top reason for bilateral total hip replacement. This surgery helps manage pain and stiffness.

Other Conditions That May Require Bilateral Replacement

Double hip surgery is not just for arthritis. Other conditions also require both hips to be replaced. These include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis affecting both hips
• Trauma or fractures in both hips
• Avascular necrosis (death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply) in both hips
• Congenital hip dysplasia or other developmental conditions affecting both hips

These conditions cause a lot of pain and limit how well you can move. Our team of orthopedic specialists will check each patient. They decide if double hip surgery is the right choice.

Fact 2: Benefits of Simultaneous Bilateral Hip Replacement

Simultaneous bilateral hip replacement has many benefits for those needing both hips replaced. This method, where both hips are replaced at once, can greatly improve recovery and outcomes.

Single Surgery and Hospital Stay Advantages

One big plus is that it means only one surgery and hospital stay. Patients face anesthesia and surgery just once. This can lower risks from multiple surgeries. A study found it can also cut down on hospital and rehab time.

Replacing both hips at once leads to a unified recovery period. This means both hips heal at the same pace. It can make rehab more balanced and reduce issues from uneven healing.

Unified Recovery Period

A unified recovery period allows for synchronized physical therapy for both hips. This makes recovery more efficient. Patients can work on mobility and strength in both hips at the same time.

Cost Considerations Compared to Staged Procedures

From a financial standpoint, it can save a lot of money. A single surgery can cut down on medical costs. This includes hospital stays, anesthesia, and rehab expenses.

But, it’s important to consider individual factors and risks. We’ll look at these in more detail later to fully understand bilateral hip replacement.

Fact 3: Possible Risks and Complications

Knowing the risks of double hip surgery is key for making smart choices. Bilateral hip replacement can greatly improve life for many. But, it’s important to know the possible challenges that might come up.

Increased Blood Loss and Transfusion Rates

Double hip surgery often leads to more blood loss. Studies show patients have more blood loss than those with one hip surgery. This can mean more blood transfusions, which carry risks like reactions and disease transmission.

To lower these risks, our team uses several strategies:

• Preoperative blood management programs
• Intraoperative blood salvage techniques
• Careful postoperative monitoring

Higher Risk of Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism is a serious risk after big surgeries, like double hip replacement. This risk is higher for double hip surgery than for single hip. We use strong thromboprophylaxis to reduce this risk, including:

• Anticoagulant medications
• Mechanical compression devices
• Early mobilization

Periprosthetic Fractures and Other Complications

Patients with bilateral hip replacement may also face other issues. These include periprosthetic fractures, infection, and implant loosening. Fractures around the implant can happen during or after surgery and might need extra treatment.

We carefully check each patient’s health, bone quality, and other factors before surgery. Our team uses the latest techniques and implants to aim for the best results.

Understanding these risks helps patients make better choices. It’s vital to talk about these with your doctor to find the best treatment for you.

Fact 4: Patient Eligibility for Double Hip Surgery

When thinking about double hip replacement, it’s key to check if a patient is right for it. To decide if someone can have both hips replaced, we look at their health and any medical issues they have.

Age Considerations and Ideal Candidates

Younger patients usually do better with both hips replaced at once. Studies show that healthier, younger people are often the best fit for this surgery. Age is a big factor in who can have this surgery.

Even though there’s no age limit, older patients with big health problems might face more risks. Doctors look at a patient’s age, health, and how well they can move to decide if they can have the surgery.

Impact of Medical Comorbidities

Medical comorbidities can affect if someone can have both hips replaced. Problems like diabetes, heart disease, and being overweight can make surgery riskier and recovery harder.

We check how serious these problems are and how they might affect surgery. Sometimes, we need to treat these issues before surgery to help the patient have a good outcome.

Overall Health Requirements

Overall health requirements are important for deciding if someone can have double hip surgery. We look at heart health, lung function, and nutrition.

People in better health usually recover faster and do better after surgery. We help patients get healthier before surgery. This might mean changing their lifestyle, getting medical treatment, or other steps.

By looking at these factors, we can figure out if someone is a good candidate for double hip surgery. Then, we create a plan that’s just right for them to get the best results.

Fact 5: The Double Hip Surgery Process

Knowing about double hip surgery is key for those thinking about it. This complex process has many stages, from getting ready before surgery to caring for yourself after.

Preoperative Preparation and Planning

Before surgery, patients go through a lot of preparation. They get medical checks, X-rays, and MRIs, and talk to the surgical team. Preoperative planning helps spot risks and plan the surgery. They also learn about lifestyle changes, like smoking cessation, to help with recovery.

Surgical Techniques and Approaches

The surgery for both hips at once uses different methods. Surgeons might choose the posterior approach, anterior approach, or direct lateral approach. The choice depends on the patient’s body, the surgeon’s skill, and what the patient needs. New technologies, like computer-assisted navigation, help make the surgery more precise.

Anesthesia Considerations for Bilateral Procedures

Anesthesia is very important for this surgery. For both hips, regional anesthesia or general anesthesia might be used. Regional anesthesia helps manage pain and lowers risks. The anesthesia team watches the patient’s health closely during the surgery.

Understanding the double hip surgery process helps patients prepare for it. It’s important to listen to the surgical team’s advice to get the best results.

Fact 6: Recovery Timeline After Bilateral Hip Replacement

Knowing the recovery timeline after bilateral hip replacement is key for patients. It covers the hospital stay, physical therapy, and getting back to daily life and work.

Hospital Stay Duration

The time in the hospital after surgery can change based on health and surgery type. Most patients start moving around or standing the first day. This shows they’re on the right path to recovery.

“Early mobilization is key to a successful recovery,” say doctors. Patients usually stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days after surgery.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Protocol

Physical therapy is very important after bilateral hip replacement. It starts soon after surgery with simple exercises. These help improve movement and strength.

Patients work with physical therapists to create a plan. This plan gets more challenging as they get better. The goal is to help them move freely and be independent again.

A typical rehabilitation protocol includes:

• Gentle exercises for hip flexion and extension
• Strengthening exercises for the surrounding muscles
• Balance and coordination training
• Progressive resistance exercises

Returning to Daily Activities and Work

When patients can go back to daily activities and work varies. Here’s a general timeline:

1. Resume light activities within 6 to 8 weeks
2. Gradually increase activity levels over 3 to 4 months
3. Return to most normal activities, including driving, within 8 to 12 weeks
4. Full recovery and return to work, depending on the job’s physical demands, can take 3 to 6 months

Following the advice of doctors and physical therapists is vital for a smooth recovery. A patient said, “The support of the medical team made a significant difference in my recovery journey.”

Fact 7: Long-Term Outcomes and Success Rates

When it comes to bilateral hip replacement surgery, the long-term results are key. Both patients and doctors need to understand how well this surgery works over time. It’s important to look at the evidence to see if it’s a good choice.

Research shows that doing both hips at once can really help. It makes moving around easier and reduces pain for those with severe arthritis. A review found that doing both hips at once is a good option. It means only one surgery and less time recovering.

Mobility Improvements

One big plus of double hip surgery is better movement. People can do more daily tasks and live more actively. Being able to move better is a big win for those who have had the surgery. It lets them do things they love and be more independent.

Pain Relief Results

Another big plus is less pain. The surgery really helps with pain, making life better for patients. Orthopedic experts say the pain relief is often huge. Patients feel less pain and can do more things.

Prosthesis Longevity and Possible Revisions

The prosthesis’s lasting power is important for the surgery’s success. Even with modern implants, sometimes they need to be replaced later. How long they last depends on the implant, the patient, and the surgery.

It’s important to see a doctor regularly after surgery. This helps catch any problems early. Regular check-ups are key to keeping the prosthesis working well.

In summary, double hip surgery often leads to better movement and less pain. While there are things to think about like how long the prosthesis lasts, the benefits are clear. It’s a good choice for the right patients.

Preparing Your Home for Recovery After Dual Hip Replacements

Getting your home ready for recovery after dual hip replacements is key. It makes your healing journey smoother and less stressful. Start making changes to your living space before surgery to help your recovery.

Necessary Home Modifications

To make your home safe and comfy, think about these changes:

• Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and cords
• Put handrails in places like bathrooms and hallways
• Make your home brighter to avoid eye strain and falls
• Move furniture to clear paths and make moving around easier

These changes can prevent accidents and make moving around your home easier during recovery.

Essential Recovery Equipment and Assistance

Right equipment and help can also improve your recovery. Here are some things to consider:

• A walker or crutches for better mobility
• A shower chair or bench for safe baths
• A raised toilet seat to ease hip strain
• Help from family or caregivers for daily tasks

Having a support system can give you peace of mind and let you focus on getting better.

By getting your home ready and having the right gear and support, you can create a healing environment. This will help you regain strength and mobility after your surgery.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision About Bilateral Hip Surgery

Choosing to have bilateral hip replacement surgery is a big decision. It needs careful thought about the good and bad sides. We’ve looked at the main points about double hip surgery, like its benefits, risks, and how to get better.

Knowing the good things about doing both hips at once is important. This means you only have to stay in the hospital and recover once. But, it’s also key to think about the downsides, like more blood loss and a higher chance of blood clots in the lungs.

Deciding on bilateral hip surgery means looking at your own situation and getting advice from doctors. It’s smart to talk to a healthcare expert about your specific case. They can help figure out the best plan for your double hip surgery.

References

1. Next Generation Hip & Knee. (2024, August 30). Is double hip replacement safe? Retrieved October 16, 2025, from https://www.nextgenerationhipandknee.com/is-double-hip-replacement-safe/ Dr Ugo Ihekweazu
2. OrthoIndy Blog. (2019, June 28). Pros and cons of double joint replacement surgery. Retrieved from https://blog.orthoindy.com/2019/06/28/pros-and-cons-of-double-joint-replacement-surgery/ OrthoIndy Blog
3. Yale Medicine. (n.d.). Simultaneous bilateral total hip replacement. Retrieved October 16, 2025, from https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/simultaneous-bilateral-total-hip-replacement Yale Medicine
4. Muskus, M. (2018). Bilateral hip arthroplasty: When is it safe to operate the second hip? PMC. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5851297/ PMC
5. Double vs single hip replacement surgery. Retrieved from https://www.drstuartmackenzie.com.au/double-vs-single-hip-replacement-surgery/