Use of bilateral as a plural or singular form
Bilateral is an adjective that may modify either a plural or a singular noun, depending on the meaning.
A bilateral decision was made between the parties. (decision made by two people acting together)
The patient has bilateral bronchitis. (one condition that is present in both bronchi at the same time)
We performed bilateral mastectomies. (two breasts, both removed separately)
Dictators frequently use the word bilateral when they mean both. When this happens, substitute the word both, or recast the sentence.
D: The patient had amputation of the bilateral feet.
T: The patient had amputation of both feet.
