In a medical context, what does the term 'bilateral' refer to?

The term 'bilateral' refers to both sides in a medical context. It is commonly used to describe conditions, procedures, or anatomical features that occur or are present on both the left and right sides of the body. For example, bilateral leg pain means that there is pain in both legs, and bilateral symptoms may indicate a more systemic issue rather than something isolated to one side. Understanding this term is essential for accurately documenting and discussing patient conditions, treatment plans, and diagnoses, as it provides clarity about the extent and symmetry of a medical issue.