Bilateral Joint Replacements

RHCI offers comprehensive inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation for those recovering from knee and hip replacement surgery.  The goal is to promote maximum return of function after surgery so that patients may enjoy the highest possible level of independence, activity and health.

Patients admitted to RHCI following joint replacement surgery must meet specific guidelines established by Medicare.  

Effective October 8, 2004, patients who may be admitted to RHCI following joint replacement surgery include those who:   

• Have surgery to replace both knees or both hips at the same time
• Need surgery as a result of a hip fracture
• Are age 85 or older (for either single or double joint replacements)
• Are extremely obese (with a Body Mass Index of more than 50, for either single or double joint replacements)
• Have a coexisting rehabilitation diagnosis requiring acute rehabilitation care, such as a past stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, etc.)

These guidelines mean that RHCI is no longer able to admit most patients who have had surgery to replace one hip or knee. These guidelines apply regardless of the patient's medical insurance.

If you have any question about whether someone meets these criteria, please contact our Admissions Office at (508) 833-4194.

The focus of Bilateral Joint Replacement Rehabilitation at RHCI is to help the patient achieve maximum functional return after surgery.

Program components include:

• Medical care by rehabilitation physicians emphasizing prevention of post-operative complications, pain management, and management of any underlying medical conditions
• Individualized, outcome-oriented treatment plan 
• Coordinated, intensive therapies to promote maximum functional improvement, including physical therapy to improve flexibility, strength and endurance, and occupational therapy to assist with self-care and independent living
• Nursing care provided by experienced and compassionate rehabilitation nurses
• Coordination of pain management to facilitate therapy and enhance comfort
• Specialized therapy equipment
• Comprehensive education program for patients
• Extensive case management with links for ongoing treatment after discharge
• Communication and coordination of specific care needs with referring surgeon

Information, referrals: (508) 833-4200

Persons scheduled for bilateral joint replacement surgery may reserve a bed at RHCI prior to having their surgery.  This process allows them to have the surgery with the reassurance that their rehabilitation needs and preferences have been pre-arranged.  RHCI Admissions staff are happy to explain the process and are also available to tour prospective patients.   Read more. 

Learn what to expect from rehabilitation after joint replacement surgery at one of our Joint Replacement Tours and Information Sessions.

For information about the next tour, call (508) 833-4200 or view the latest Joint Replacment Tour   ad or register online.

RHCI's experienced outpatient therapists offer extensive pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation for people having both single and double joint replacement surgery.   A course of pre-surgical rehabilitation can help condition the patient for surgery and facilitate recovery after surgery.  Post-surgical rehabilitation focuses on promoting maximum range of motion and preparing the patient to resume home, work and leisure activities.  Read more.

Outpatient centers located in Sandwich, Bourne, Yarmouth and Orleans.