To compare the operating time, amount of blood transfused, length of hospital stay, and early complications (within 6 months) between 2-week staged bilateral arthroplasties and matched randomised controls undergoing unilateral arthroplasties.
From October 1992 to October 2000, 90 patients who underwent bilateral hip or knee arthroplasties with a 2-week interval were compared with matched randomised controls undergoing unilateral arthroplasties. A single surgeon performed all procedures.
After the match-up process, 30 pairs of patients were included in the analysis. There were no significant differences in the operating times, amount of blood transfused, and early complication rates. The mean difference in length of hospital stay was significant (t=-3.552, df=29, p<0.001).
Compared to staged procedures with an interval months apart, staged sequential arthroplasty with a 7- to 10-day interval during one hospital admission is more efficient, as it facilitates earlier rehabilitation without higher complication rates, and entails shorter hospital stays.