In a unique case, two sisters aged 76 and 74 underwent simultaneous knee replacement surgery at a Mumbai hospital, and were able to walk within 24 hours of the procedure.
The surgeries were performed by Dr Mudit Khanna, who is the consultant joint replacement surgeon, at Wockhardt Hospitals Mumbai Central, with both women showing rapid recovery despite their age.
The sisters had been struggling with knee pain for years—one for nearly a decade, while the other developed symptoms more recently. As their condition began to affect daily activities and mobility, they were advised Total Knee Replacement (TKR) — a procedure in which damaged knee joints are replaced with artificial implants to relieve pain and restore movement.
Their decision to undergo surgery together is what set this case apart. It was not driven by medical necessity, but by their personal bond.
“We have always done everything together in life, and this was no different. Even though our problems started at different times, we decided to go through this together so we could support each other,” the sisters shared.
The procedures were carried out using advanced surgical techniques aimed at minimizing tissue damage and enabling quicker recovery. Doctors encouraged early mobilisation, which played a key role in their progress.
Remarkably, both patients were able to stand and walk on the very first day after surgery, without needing a walker or assistance from a physiotherapist. They could independently use the washroom and move around comfortably, reporting minimal to no pain.
“Simultaneous knee replacement in elderly patients can be safely performed with the right patient selection and surgical approach. Early mobilisation is critical for recovery, and in this case, both patients responded exceptionally well. Their positive mindset and emotional support for each other also contributed significantly,” said Dr Khanna.
Doctors note that early mobilisation after Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is increasingly being encouraged, even in elderly people, as it helps reduce complications such as stiffness, blood clots, and delayed recovery.
While joint replacement in older individuals can be challenging due to age-related factors and comorbidities, advances in surgical techniques and post-operative care are improving outcomes and enabling faster return to daily activities.
"Always done everything together": Sisters unable to walk get surgery together
