Surgical hardware can limit movement and lead to other joint problems, so it is important to consider this when considering the recovery process. Recovery after hardware removal is not nearly as hard as the recovery right after the injury. Pain and swelling around the cut (incision) should get better within a few days, but it is common to have pain for up to several weeks.
There are 10 indications for hardware removal after fracture fixation: IRRITATED TENDONS, which can result from constant contact with a plate, screw, or pin. Orthopaedic hardware symptoms can be common and some hardware may require removal. The first 1-3 days after surgery are the most uncomfortable, and patients will receive advice on how to manage pain and take painkillers.
If the bone is united and the implants are removed, precautions of around 3-6 weeks should be taken before returning to routine activities. The first 1-3 days are the most uncomfortable, and patients will receive advice on how to take painkillers.
Pain score before hardware removal was 3. 4 (range 0 to 6) and decreased to 1. 3 (range 0 to 6) after removal. It is normal to have some pain for 2 to 3 weeks after surgery and mild pain for up to 6 weeks.
Do not engage in prolonged periods of standing or walking over the first 7-10 days following surgery. Avoid long periods of sitting without leg elevated, or in rare instances, sitting for up to three days. This is done for pain control and comfort during and after the procedure.
In summary, surgical hardware removal can limit movement and lead to joint problems, but it is essential to avoid complications and follow a general recovery timeline.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware removal after tibial fracture has healed – PMC | by A Sidky · 2008 · Cited by 60 — This study examined the rate of IMN removal in tibial diaphyseal fractures after healing, as well as the characteristics of patients requesting IMN removal. | pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov |
| leg hardware removal- tibial nail | Do not engage in prolonged periods of standing or walking over the first 7-10 days following surgery. •. Avoid long periods of sitting (without leg elevated) or … | mammothortho.com |
| Foot & Ankle Hardware Removal Surgery Procedure & … | Unfortunately, the only way to fully know if retained hardware is causing pain is to remove it and reassess symptoms. While not a true risk, continued pain … | footcaremd.org |
📹 Should I Have My Plate And Screws Taken Out? Hardware Removal Surgery
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Can Surgical Hardware Cause Pain?
The experience of pain after surgical hardware implantation varies based on multiple factors, including the site of the hardware and individual patient characteristics. Hardware placed in areas with minimal soft tissue coverage, such as muscle or fat, is more likely to experience irritation from shoe pressure. Generally, screws positioned flush with the bone do not cause discomfort, and metal screws and plates are widely utilized in surgeries for fractures, joint fusions, or stabilization of bones in the foot and ankle. Most patients do not report symptoms from these implants, which can remain inside permanently without issue.
However, some patients may develop painful hardware due to various reasons. Factors leading to pain include prominent or loosening hardware irritating nearby tendons, nerves, or skin. Hardware removal is considered when the fracture has healed, and a certain amount of time has passed since the original surgery. Although many patients see a reduction in pain post-removal, some may continue experiencing discomfort. Common complications, such as irritation from retained screws, may arise, especially with specific shoe types exerting pressure on the foot.
Persistent pain after hardware insertion is not uncommon, and pain intensity can fluctuate. Hardware may become painful due to non-union of bones causing loosening, or due to hardware prominence and its position in the foot and ankle. In cases where pain persists or healing isn't achieved, surgical hardware may need to be removed during revision surgery. While removal may alleviate pain, ongoing discomfort can still occur in some patients, making it essential to consult with an orthopedic surgeon for an accurate assessment and potential removal if necessary.
How Is A Tibial Fracture Treated?
Tibial fractures, the most prevalent long bone fractures, primarily result from traumatic injuries or repetitive stress. The standard treatment for diaphyseal tibial fractures is intramedullary nailing (IMN), where a metal rod is inserted within the tibia to stabilize the fracture. In cases with minimal movement in closed fractures, non-surgical management can involve splints for support. Immediate medical attention is crucial for lower leg fractures, and treatment goals focus on realigning and stabilizing the bone fragments during healing.
Surgery is often necessary for emergencies or severe fractures, while casts, orthopedic braces, and splints may be used in less severe cases. Recovery times can range from six weeks to several months, with full recovery sometimes taking up to two years. Post-surgery, a cast may be replaced by a removable brace to allow for hygiene while still protecting the fracture site.
Current best practices emphasize IMN due to its effectiveness and minimal invasiveness. Additionally, cast immobilization remains a key approach for low-energy fractures with associated soft-tissue injuries. Overall, effective treatment involves a combination of immediate medical intervention, stabilization, and a tailored recovery plan that may include at-home exercises to expedite healing. The article outlines the various types, causes, and treatment methods for tibial fractures, highlighting the importance of appropriate management for optimal recovery.
When Does Pain Go Away After Tibia Surgery?
Your broken bone (fracture) has been properly aligned and stabilized. Post-surgery, you can expect pain and swelling around the incision site. This discomfort should start to improve within a few days, with some pain lasting 2 to 3 weeks and mild pain persisting for up to 6 weeks. Initially, fractures can cause extreme sharp pain, especially if you attempt to move the affected area, and pressure can increase this pain. As healing occurs, the pain should decrease, but if you have a cast, you may experience additional sensations.
It's crucial to notify your surgeon if you develop a high fever, chills, or severe pain that does not subside, or if you lose sensation in your leg or foot. Follow-up appointments are essential. Most individuals will notice a reduction in pain and can return to daily activities approximately three to six weeks post-surgery, but full recovery can take 4 months to a year.
After surgery, pain medication will be prescribed. Recent advances in knee replacement surgery have introduced minimally invasive procedures to manage pain more effectively. Swelling and pain may take up to three months to resolve, with full knee replacement recovery potentially extending to two years. Most patients can begin walking based on their pain levels immediately after surgery, requiring a walking boot for the first two weeks. Complete recovery from a tibial plateau fracture is possible, but the speed of recovery varies based on the fracture type and the rehab received post-operation.
About 30% of patients may experience moderate pain after knee replacements, and persistent pain for weeks could indicate a problem. Recovery from a tibia fracture usually spans 4-6 months, longer for more complex fractures. Over time, movement should improve, though some studies show that non-medical factors can predict ongoing pain, regardless of injury severity.
How Hard Is The Recovery After Hardware Removal?
The recovery process following orthopedic hardware removal tends to be easier and quicker compared to the recovery immediately following the original injury. In my experience, it can take about half the time. Post-surgery, patients may experience pain and swelling around the incision site; this discomfort can be alleviated with rest, ice application, and prescribed pain relievers. Depending on the surgeon's recommendations, weight-bearing activities may be limited for several days or weeks, and physical therapy is often advised to help regain strength and mobility.
Following the removal of screws, pins, or plates, it's normal to have some pain and swelling that should improve within a few days, although mild pain might persist for several weeks. Recovery is generally faster than after the initial surgery, but full healing may take several months, influenced by the surgery's complexity and the patient's overall health.
Common risks associated with hardware removal include infection, nerve damage, re-fracture, and anesthesia complications, which should be discussed with your doctor beforehand. Activities like contact sports may need to be avoided for 1-2 months to minimize fracture risks. After surgery, a rehabilitation program is crucial for effective recovery, focusing on restoring range of motion (ROM), strength, and agility.
Initially, patients might face mild to moderate pain, numbness, or tingling for the first couple of weeks. It's essential to refrain from bathing or submerging the surgical site until the incision is fully healed, typically within 1-2 weeks. A walking cast boot might be necessary for ankle hardware removal recovery. Patients are advised to change positions frequently and avoid overexertion to prevent delayed healing. Overall, physical therapy plays a vital role in aiding recovery, promoting ROM, strength, agility, and endurance after surgery.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Hardware Removal Surgery On The Tibia?
WEIGHT BEARING GUIDELINES: For the initial two weeks following surgery, patients may need to wear a postoperative shoe to accommodate the bandage and may require crutches for assistance in mobility. Most patients can expect to return to regular activities within six weeks, with full recovery anticipated within three months.
POST-OPERATIVE PAIN AND RECOVERY: Post-surgery for the removal of orthopedic hardware (metal screws, pins, or plates), patients typically experience pain and swelling around the incision site. Improvement is usually noticed within a few days, but it is normal to have lingering discomfort for several weeks. The timeline for recovery can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances; thus, it's advised to consult your doctor regarding specific follow-up procedures after surgery.
EXPERIENCE OF OTHERS: Many patients have shared difficulties in determining recovery times after hardware removal, especially following tibial plateau fractures. Individual experiences vary widely; one patient who underwent surgery in March 2016 continues to face discomfort.
WHEN TO REMOVE HARDWARE: Removal surgery is ideally performed when a fracture is healed and typically three to six months have elapsed post-injury. Although implants are designed to remain in the body without harm, their removal may be pursued under certain circumstances.
POST-SURGERY PRECAUTIONS: After surgery, patients should avoid prolonged standing, walking, or sitting without elevating the leg for at least the first ten days. High-impact activities should be avoided for four to eight weeks as the bone heals—early joint exercises may be initiated before stitch removal.
RECOVERY FROM ANKLE FIXATION: When ankle hardware is removed, a walking cast or brace may be necessary for four weeks. Studies have indicated that complete recovery of bone strength after orthopedic plate removal could take approximately six months. Average recovery time from work post-surgery is around three to four weeks, assuming no complications arise.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Surgery?
After undergoing surgery to remove orthopedic hardware like screws, pins, or plates, you can anticipate some pain and swelling around the incision site, which typically improves in a few days but may linger for weeks. Recovery time varies significantly based on factors such as the type of surgery and individual health. Generally, patients are discharged within a few days and can resume light activities in about 3 to 6 weeks, though regaining full strength and motion can take several months.
Post-surgery care is vital for a speedy recovery and to avoid complications. Patients should be vigilant about incision care and aware of when to seek emergency medical help. Recovery duration may be influenced by the specific procedure; for example, minor surgeries like a vasectomy can require only a few days off, while more complex surgeries like a Total Knee Replacement may necessitate several months to a year for full recovery.
In the initial post-surgery phase, mobility should be encouraged to promote blood flow and healing. This period often comes with fatigue, and patients usually need ample rest during recovery. Most individuals feel some improvement within two weeks, with full recovery typically seen between 4 to 6 weeks for simpler operations. It's essential to follow the physician's advice about re-engaging in normal activities.
Anesthesia effects can also shape recovery duration. For instance, major abdominal surgeries may require two to three months for comfortable movement, whereas recovery times for complex keyhole surgeries can differ. Overall, patience and proper care are crucial as the body heals from surgery.
How Do You Know If Your Body Is Rejecting Surgical Hardware?
The gradual development of skin changes, pain, tenderness, and swelling around implanted hardware, coupled with signs of loosening in previously stable implants, may indicate issues such as rejection of surgical hardware, although this is rare. Symptoms in multipart devices may intensify with increased activity. Hypersensitivity or allergies to metals can arise after contact, leading to skin reactions or systemic issues. Common signs of rejection include persistent pain at the fracture site and indications of nonunion, particularly in cases of fractures.
Patients may experience dermatitis, rashes, swelling, and inflammation that can mimic infection. These reactions may also involve joint pain, effusions, and impaired wound healing. While breast implants generally show low rates of rejection due to their biocompatible materials, dental implants made from titanium may cause issues in rare cases due to titanium allergies.
If someone suspects their body is rejecting an implant, doctors can help identify symptoms such as localized pain, discomfort that pain medication cannot alleviate, and overall weakness or numbness. Other manifestations can include warmth, redness, and drainage around the implant area. For those undergoing security screening at airports, metal implants may trigger alarms.
In summary, while rejection of surgical hardware is uncommon, hypersensitivity reactions can occur, leading to pain and discomfort, and may require medical evaluation and potentially removal of the hardware. It's crucial for patients to monitor symptoms and seek advice if they experience adverse reactions to their implants.
What Is The Most Difficult Surgery For An Orthopedic?
Recovering from orthopedic surgeries can be particularly challenging, with several procedures recognized for their difficulty. Among them, Spinal Fusion Surgery frequently tops the list as one of the most difficult. This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae to alleviate pain caused by movement. Similarly, Complex Spinal Reconstruction is a complex procedure that can also lead to a tough recovery. Knee Replacement Surgery often presents significant rehabilitation challenges, as does Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction, which addresses common knee injuries.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery is another procedure noted for the pain and extensive recovery it entails. Many patients report that these surgeries are among the most painful due to the intricate nature of post-operative rehabilitation and the need for effective pain management.
The recovery journey from orthopedic surgeries can vary broadly based on individual circumstances, but awareness of the physical challenges and tailored strategies can aid in navigating this process. Understanding the complexities of each surgery, such as Spinal Fusion and total joint replacements, prepares patients for the hurdles they may face post-operation. Collectively, these procedures highlight the intricacies of orthopedic recoveries and the courage required from patients to engage in healing.
Can I Walk On My Foot After Hardware Removal?
After undergoing surgery, it is crucial to follow specific post-operative guidelines to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. For the first 7-10 days post-surgery, avoid prolonged standing or walking to minimize stress on the surgical site. Additionally, refrain from extended periods of sitting without elevating the legs and avoid long-distance travel for the first two weeks. During the initial two days after surgery, expect a small amount of red-tinged drainage on dressings, which is normal.
Do not put weight on the area where hardware was removed until your doctor gives the go-ahead. Gradually increase your activity levels as recommended by your healthcare provider, as staying active enhances blood flow and helps prevent conditions such as pneumonia and constipation. Currently, at week 9 post-surgery, patients may begin walking with assistance, such as a boot, and typically have a follow-up appointment after approximately four weeks. This follow-up often includes scheduling hardware removal surgery if necessary.
Hardware removal may become necessary for several reasons, including irritated tendons caused by constant contact with plates, screws, or pins, and to prevent potential joint problems due to limited movement from the hardware. Surgical experiences can vary, but common procedures involve the removal of screws and metal plates, which may result in manageable pain post-operation. Recovery after hardware removal may require the use of walking casts, boots, or braces for about four weeks. Patients might use crutches or walkers as needed for comfort, although they are not always required.
Proper incision care is essential; if a cast is not used, clean the incision twice daily with soap and water once the doctor allows. Weight-bearing is typically permitted as tolerated immediately after surgery, and elevation of the operative leg to chest level helps reduce swelling and pain. Driving should only be resumed once it is safe, meaning the patient is free from significant pain and has adequate mobility.
Statistics from Kaiser Permanente indicate that approximately 80% of patients do not require hardware removal, although about 20% may experience issues necessitating the procedure. Recovery may involve soreness for several days and the use of mobility aids like crutches or walkers for added support. Adhering to these post-operative instructions is vital for a smooth and effective recovery process.
📹 Bone Plates and Screws FOR LIFE: Do they have to come out? #shorts
When plates, rods and screw bone hardware are needed to fix a fracture, the hardware can be left in place FOR LIFE.
I’ve just had all my hardware removed and feel so much better already. The wound from the op hurts of course but my mobility is so far much improved and it’s only been a week since getting it all out. Very glad I listened to my gut and pushed for the removal, the surgeons were hesitant but I believed it was worth a go and now I’m very relieved I did. The pain from the hardware that was in my ankle was getting no better even after a years time in recovery. You know your own body, listen to it and your gut and if you know something is wrong don’t take “I don’t know”/”I’m not sure” as an answer from your doctors. Things can only get worse in time if you leave them untreated. Peace and love to anyone reading this, I wish you wellness and safety :).
I had my metalware (7 screws & 1 plate) removed, 15 months after a Weber C fracture. Strangely for me, US/Canadian surgeons often even leave syndesmotic screws in place, even fully expecting these screws to break, once weight bearing is commenced. “It does take up operative time that could be used for other purposes”? Yep, I think that might be the main reason. This operation does not pay much and when I talked to an Australian surgeon, he was only willing to take the metalware out in conjunction with an arthroscopy, charging a couple of thousand of extra dollars for the entire procedure. The doctor also advised that he would not be willing to hand me the metalware after the operation. So I decided to head to Europe (Berlin), where I had all metalware removed for a couple of hundred Euros, versus in excess of A$3,000 in Australia. My surgery happened 6 days ago and I feel terrific. No more pressure in that area and totally worth the long journey. Always consider that surgeons are also business people.
I had an L1 burst fracture, with spinal fixation done over a year ago (from T11 to L3). It reduced my mobility, and the surgeon who did the fixation told me it was better to remove that hardware to put less strain (over many years) on the surrounding vertebrae. I just got the hardware removed and already I feel so much better!
I had ORIF for a broken ankle 14 months ago. A metal plate and 6 screws were installed. Two screws went through the ankle bone. The ankle screws rubbed against any shoe I tried and every step was painful. I had all hardware removed 6 weeks ago. It’s no longer painful. The ankle is a little stiff, but I am hopeful it loosens with exercise. Even if it doesn’t, the pain is gone, and the 13 minutes in the OR was totally worth it.
Hi Docs, love your articles. I fractured my wrist 1 1/2 years ago and had a titanium plate and screws put in. Seven months later had hardware removed due to pain. Removal went well and dr found a neuroma, cauterized and buried it in screw hole and held with bone wax. Still had discomfort and pain but went for months of occupational therapy and felt well for 3 or 4 months. One day kept flexing wrist and now have had pain almost daily that doesn’t resolve except while sleeping. Went for a second opinion was blown off. Dr took many x-rays and kept saying “not bad”. Wrist healed straight. I requested another ultrasound trying to rule out nerve or tendon problem. Dr. said what he was able to see looked good. MRI after hardware removal showed some mild tendinosis. I am at wit’s end about what to do. I keep telling myself I had felt well and can get back to that point. It really takes a toll on your mind when a dr says you might have this forever. It also hasn’t been a year since removal. Any encouragement or suggestions would be much appreciated. Have you ever heard of success with acupuncture? Dr would not give cortisone shot. He said skin is too thin and discolored. Thank you in advance. I find it incredible that you take the time to answer all these questions.
Update: Great news! About seven months ago, I decided to have surgery to remove the screws and plate from my ankle to improve mobility and eliminate weather sensitivity. I’m so glad I did because now I no longer feel like I’m carrying this extra weight, and I can walk just as I did before, including fast when heading for a bus! One reason (but not the only one!) I decided to go through with this was reading the real-life comments on this site from people who had it done. I also knew two people who had the surgery and three who didn’t, mainly because their doctors didn’t offer it as an option. By the way, I had an excellent surgeon (Northwestern) whom I trusted completely. Best of all he respected my wishes and didn’t try to talk me out of it.
I had a bimalleolar ORIF in December and it healed just fine. Then 6 months later my roommate’s cat bit my ankle right on the scar which led to a MRSA infection of my ankle and emergency surgery for hardware removal the day before my college graduation! I made it to graduation in a wheelchair with a huge cast and hooked up to a drainage bag LOL but it could’ve been a lot worse. I’m glad we caught it before it became septic. Moral of the story: always get things checked out and don’t wait until the last minute. Now I’m just waiting for my incision site to heal and to finish my course of antibiotics 😊 hopefully all my ankle drama is finished
Hi i had surgery 2 weeks ago for a broken wrist. I now have a plate. Your explanations for leaving the plate in are informative. However, i understand that plates have only been used since around 2000. Therefore, i am concerned of the long term effects of keeping the plate in. So any stats on the long term effects will not be older than 18 years. I am trying to make an informed decision about whether to have the plate out. My gut feeling is to eventually remove this useful, but alien, object! Thank you for your help.
Informative and interesting as always. Just 2 weeks post LAPIPLASTY surgery, I never thought about the possibility of having the plate or plates and screws removed and don’t think that was ever the plan. Hoping there will never be a need for that. Other than this annoying boot I have no complaints. Great articles that always answer questions of inquiring minds with reduced mobility.
Like a few other comments here, I had plates and a few screws removed from my ankle one year after the original fracture. As an active 26 year old I couldn’t imagine living the rest of my life with foreign objects in my body. The risks with surgery were negligible in my mind. Only 3 weeks later and my mobility feels so much better. But everybody’s case is different
Thank you so much for this very informative article. Had fibula plate put in on Oct. 31st. It drove my mad crazy hopping around with my walker on one foot for six weeks. I’m at 50% weight-bearing and in therapy, I am so anxious about recovering during the winter months in MI. I’ll be doing the best I can, just hope we don’t get a lot of snow and ice. Thanks again.
I had a tibia plateau fracture with a grade 3 LCL rupture in 2019 that needed reconstruction. A plate and 8 screws later I had the hardware removed after 2 years due to significant pain/limitation of ROM and swelling. Absolutely life-changing. I had to go to another surgeon to get it removed because the original ortho refused to remove it. If you’re suffering with issues long after the bone has healed, speak up. You WILL find a surgeon willing to help you out.
I had a surgery to remove a humerus plate (with 6 screws) 1 month ago, and definitely it was the best decision I could made, i couldn´t workout or lift heavy things because I felt pain, without a doubt I recommend this kind of surgery, it´s impossible to have a normal life with hardware in your body (in my experience of course)
Back in January of 2015 my son broke his upper right femur while at hockey practice. The orthopedic surgeon placed a rod in the bone and 4 metal screws (2 high and 2 low) in the bone to hold the rod in place. Three years later and my son tells me he is beginning to feel discomfort from where the screws are. We’ve consulted a orthopedist while he was being seen for a totally different injury this year (2017-18) and he said that it’s up to him whether he wants to have surgery to remove the screws. My question(s) is, if he has surgery to remove the screws, will they also remove the rod in his femur or will that be left in? Will he also have to undergo post surgery physical therapy or just a few days of bed rest and recovery?
I had bi-malleolar fracture – plate & screws in left ankle. One year later plate, screws were removed. The only stress was the nurses terrorizing me all night – overnight for observation. I’m more afraid of technicians getting the injured arm or leg wrong or from needing to pee with a fractured knee but no one to help me get to the toilet. The knee ORIF wire has come apart but it doesn’t look like they will remove it. It bugs me – wire all over my otherwise smooth knee/patella. That’s why I watched this article. Thanks Docs!
Thanks chaps and I found your advice very useful and pragmatic. I have an old tibia metal plate and 5-odd screws which have been in for over 40 years and have not intention of having them removed if I can help it – though a TKR may not be easy. Whilst I am sure the older ‘Doc’ won’t like me saying so, the combination of you two Doctors as the younger, enthusiastic and questioning Doc and the older, dry humoured, sage Doc works well (!).
Yeah I had a car accident like a year ago And I had to have some hardware put in And my spine was healed after a few months And I decided to have it removed the moment I found out it was fully healed Mainly because arthritis runs very high in my family Especially in the joints and spinal cord area And I did not want to risk it So I had my hardware removed and i several exercises to rebuild my strength And then I was fully recovered But do take it easy guys and when you’re rebuilding your strength do not overdue it You do not want to reinjure the same area
Hey thanks for taking the time to educate us! I had an open fracture on my tib/fib and a spiral fracture on my femur and I have 2 IM rods. I am experiencing large amount of pain above the kneecap whenever I extend my leg, it feels like the IM rod is pressing into the joint, it’s only been 6 weeks since the operation, but I feel like my PT exercises are causing me more and more pain, and causing the knee to become more swollen. I am only 21 years old, if I am adamant to get all the hardware out, can I get the screws and rods out at the same time? Do I get the femur rod out first?
LOL.. for rest of you.. To date I have a plate in my neck, my knee, my right arm, a rod full lenght of femur and one into my hip. I have had none removed. For the beating I have taken joints work damn good. So no worries about leaving them in.. side note.. there are good orthos and bad ones.. Shop around and dont be shy! Ask questions. Sometimes its just a doctor you dont get along with personality wise. But it means Tons when you love and trust your doctor. Ask Questions, and shop! if possible.
Hi docs! Christmas of 2016 I was snowboarding and had an unexpected fall resulted in shattering my left elbow (distal humerus fx etc), had ORIF with plates and screws. I think it was a pretty severe injury, I suffered lots of joint stiffness and pain. My bones are healed per my ortho team. Nov of 2017 my ortho doc noticed a small bone grow in the joint in the way of flexion, but said it’s my choice if I want to have surgery to take out the bone growth (since he’s in there already, he’d take out the implants too). I wanted to try my best with conservative measures of recovery and wanted to rule out the pain is not just a healing process but actually from the implants, so I waited. Now (Aug 2018) I’m still having pain, unable to bear much weight, some joint stiffness; though range of motion is improved, it’s not 100%, and I’m just modified in my daily functional stuff. Should I go forth with the surgery given this status? My recovery from 1st surgery for trauma was pretty brutal, would this round of surgery be theoretically better & quicker? I’m a 34 year old female, active lifestyle (pretty bummed due to this injury). I have a hard time finding studies about outcome of hardware removal for specifically my type of injury in the US. I would love to hear your opinion!
Hello, once the hardware is removed from the ankle, when would it be a good time to start with Physiotheraphy? As the numerous screws removed leave behind a lot of holes in the bone. And also when would one switch from partial weight bearing to full weight bearing keeping in mind about the holes in the bone and not to risk cracking them? Thank you in advance.
Hi doctors, I had laminectomy and L4,L5, & S1 fused back in 2016 and it was a successful surgery. Last July when I lifted a heavy item, I heard and felt unusual sounds like some screws being pulled in the fused bone. The first symptom was dull ache and within 30 minutes I started to get severe muscle spasms around the area. I couldn’t walk for about a month afterwards. Took a lot of medication and now all the muscle spasms subsided but now I have pain in the S1 bone where the screws are placed. The more I move around the more pain ache I feel in the bone. Especially if I bend forward I will have to be in bed for the next few days. The nerve pain is from the lower back, to buttocks and thighs down to the knee level. I took x-rays, CAT scan, and MRI. They don’t show any loose screws. But I feel the screws cause the pain. Yesterday I got steroid injections in the back but I didn’t see any difference. I’m hopeless and don’t know what to do. I’m going to see my surgeon next week but I’m not sure if he will be willing to solve this problem. I’m wondering if I could get my hardware removed at your clinic privately. Please let me know.
I had my hardware removed about a month ago. The screws were sticking out up under the skin looking like little skin tent. After the removal I almost immediately felt pain in a certain area. But felt it was likely just healing. At 12 days I had my staples removed only to discover the incisions had not healed at all but were open. I’d fallen first step out of my car on arrival ho,e from surgery, slipping on some water that has spilled on the garage floor from a watering can I had no idea what’s there. Perhaps the incisions popped open then. It was painful but an x-ray showed no breaks. The nurse at my doctor’s office applied sterili strip and a breathable mepore bandage and sent on my way. Instructed to come back if there were complications etc. Five days later I sent pics of the incisions to my surgeon who wanted to see me pronto and within a few days I met with him. He was concerned, suggested surgery to clean it out or antibiotics. I chose the latter and am going to wound care three times a week. Three more pills and we’ll see. The course of antibiotics was for seven days. I am definitely concerned.
Very good and interesting to hear guys! As i am nearly one year in to having spinal metal fixation, I am not sure whether to have it taken out or not. My consultant said that 10% of his patients get it taken out due to problems / issues. And although i still feel pain in my back he did say give it up to 18 months and for any nerve pain to heal. After that length of time its pretty much permanent, or so i am told…
Hi just to put some people at ease ! I had titanium plates to repair fractures to the left radius and ulna more than 38 years ago . Although I have lost some rotational movement maybe 20% and some muscle loss due I think to the length of time getting the bones to heal approx 2years of failed operations, eventually had a bone graft wich was successful.as time as gone by I have never contamplated having them removed.i can honestly say I never have had any problems.
I had my clavicle pinned plated and the ligaments reconstructed 7 years ago … for 7 years I have not been able to lie on my left side / have suffered pain; not only that region but going into my neck/shoulder, too. I have had MRI for cervical issues … there are none, so I can only assume it’s the metal work. I suffer from CRPS/RSD which is a risk as one of the Consultants I went to said I had this in the collarbone area. (However it is nowhere near like it is in my hand and ankle). Concerned on what to do. 3rd surgeon I have seen said he will remove the plate (as one of the pins is going into arthritic bone opposite) and take out the AC joint and scale down the bone that has osteoarthritis in it)
Hey! I’ve been struggling with this question (whether ir not to remove my hardware ) because i had a scoliosis correction surgery 8 years ago, when i was 14. Since the last year my scar has been infecting on and off, to the point that, when it heals, it forms a depression on the skin. I wonder that, if i do proceed with the removal, how are holes the vertebrae supposed to heal ? Is there any bone density loss after the removal? Will i be able to continue weightlifting sports? Would love if someone could advise me and answer my doubts. Thank you!
Broke both my arms 3 years ago in a motorbike accident and had plate put in been in intense pain ever since up till this day now 3 years later been pushed forward to have the plate removed next week but this article cleared up a lot of worried and questions I was worried about so thank you !hopefully I recover and can finally not be in pain
I had a Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy with a plastic plate and 2 screws inserted 11 years ago. Part of the where I had the surgery is STILL numb after all this time. For the last few years, every time i stand up from sitting it feels like the plate is bending. Complaining about it made me feel like a big baby so I dealt with it, but now the pain is increasing. This article definitely helped me to try and find out where the pain could be.
I had a compound fracture in my ankle back in 2010. 11 years later, I have a sore on my ankle I’ve had since 2016. It hurts sometimes, but I’m concerned. I went to the orthopedic doctor and he said it wasn’t a problem. I’m going to have insurance through my job and I’m going to have to get it out. I’m concerned about healing time.
Just had a plate and seven screws removed from my elbow after nine months. The recovery is a breeze compared to my initial surgery. I’m pretty thin so I could literally see the shape of the plate under my skin! I already had recovered about 95% of my ROM after physical therapy. Hoping now to push it back to 100%. My surgeon gave me my hardware to keep. So weird to think all that was in my elbow!
Hello, Doctors! I am impressed that you comment every single comment! Could you, please, answer my question? I just had ORIF calcaneus last week, and the screws and a plate on the outer side. How does the skin fix itself over the plate? Is it hanging lose, so I can pinch and pull it off? Does it attach itself to the heelbone through the remaining holes in the plate? Does it get discolored? Thank you. 2) can the bone grow over the plate causing ugly bumps?
I had pelvic reconstruction almost 17yrs ago…I asked if the metal is taken out, they told me they do enough nerve damage going in the first time, they don’t go back in, I pointed out that a screw protrudes out the bottom, they said “well, that shouldn’t bother you unless you’re riding a bike or something”. I am not happy, in fact, it has been a real pain in the butt.
I was hit by a car while on a scooter in Canada recently. Tibial plateau fracture, acetabulum fracture, and hip dislocation, and a small radial head fracture on my arm all left side of body. I am 3 weeks in, already noticing lower back pain and soreness around the area of incision/hip. Non weight bearing on left leg for 8 weeks total, so I can’t really tell how my walking will be yet with both feet. Already hopping 150 ft with a walker and doing much better because of ortho rehab inpatient. 2 week CTs showing osteoarthritis. I’m 25 with previous history of joint pain, arthritis, and sciatica. Hoping the pain subsides more eventually, but for 3 weeks I’ve made awesome progress!
I had an ORIF after breaking and dislocating my ankle two years ago. Since then I’ve had multiple internal infections around the top of the plate which makes it extra tender, hot and swollen – and the screw on the bottom of the plate can be seen pressing under my skin which is uncomfortable. I’ve got an appt with my ortho surgeon tomorrow to potentially have it removed!!
Hello, I’m 42 years old. 23 years old broke my femur – wanted to remove hardware doc tried and couldn’t so only took the screw from up top of femur by greater trochanter. Then two years later was running again and screws were poking threw my knee – the doc goes in and shaves the screws heads off (I know- what a mess) – years pass and I never think this will be anything major but here I am now – 2 failed labral hip reconstructions (I am very very active – but not anymore – I really need to be more careful) – Fast forward to now – I need a total hip replacement – just had surgery almost 3 weeks ago to remove screws – surgeon couldn’t get the entire rod out – part of the drill but broke but they couldn’t risk taking out the tiny piece of metal that flew “too close to my femoral artery.” My surgeon didn’t think it was that big a deal bc he said the size is minute. Tomorrow makes 3 weeks since the surgery. I am still in horrid pain. November/December I go in for a total hip replacement and femoral osteotomy. He said he knows he’d be able to remove rod this way (rod is also pointing more lateral by the greater trochanter in femur proximally)…they said recovery time is about three months. When a doc says this I multiple it by 2 so I say about 6 months total recovery a year. I am in major pain from my knee. I cannot do a leg lift on my own. I am starting to work with Physical Therapy now. It is extremely hard. I have a 22 mm labral tear in the right hip and in my left one now, I have an 11 mm tear.
Hi I have a son that was bullied at school and a boy broke his arm which required surgery to fix. He had a metal rod and pins put in to fix the break. He’s been doing fine he’s 13 this was a few years ago. Would you recommend to have the rod removed if he’s doing okay or leave it in? He’s been able to to everything just fine.
I had a recent surgery for removal of ORIF PLATING in Right hand radius-ulna after 3 years of its implant insitu. Most importantly DUE TO lag screw in ulna,it gets to be a complicated surgery lasting nearly 6 hours for its removal through HOLLOW MILLS. Also there’s a fracture in ulna resulting for INTERMEDULLARY NAILING …..I’m hopefull for removal of the Nail As soon to get back to my routine…
In 2001 I had a plate/screws put in the lower left arm near the wrist from a break during hockey. I seemed okay until I re-jammed the wrist playing lacrosse in 2007 and it created a small bulge in the arm that was not there before (possible plate bending?) I went to the orthopedic doctor to ask about taking the plate/screws out and he gave the common sense answer, “I would not want to try to take hardware out and cause more damage. You re-injured your already injured arm/wrist. Physical Therapy for life.” The bulk of the pain in the arm went away and I moved on. Not long after, I noticed my whole arm would turn purple while lifting weights or even holding lighter objects at a certain angel. Next, my shoulder/neck slowly started to become tight/pained/stiff– eventually my jaw felt tight on that same left side and smiling symmetrically was hard. Even feeling like my left eye was being tugged down on. I saw a slew of doctors for thoracic outlet syndrome– dye tests on my heart and ultra sounds– MRI of my head for possible injury to the brian ect. They did not find anything and all thought I was crazy (except when I showed my arm turning purple by lifting weights in their office.) Is there any chance that this plate is pinching nerves in my arm/wrist affecting other parts of my body? To this day, my arm still turns purple lifting even a light object at an angel. If I grasp the injured area I can more easily crack my neck back into place and jaw tightness lessens. Massage helps to.
I had my second knee surgery last July and had hardware replaced and a plate and 11 screws put in. The screw near the bottom on my knee cap never bothered me as much after my first surgery as it does now. It’s a lot more sensitive, and I can feel the screw head under my skin. My plate also has been causing me lots of issues, and I’m trying to figure out if I should get everything removed or not. My surgeon isn’t very…people oriented it seems, so he never really goes into detail about anything and kind of brushes off the questions I ask about it.
Just had my plate removed from the top side of my 5th metacarpal today… plate was causing irritation to the proximal end of my finger and had caused adhesions of the flexor tendon, so underwent tenolysis at the same time… hopefully this fixes my pain and joint stiffness, 15 months on from the original reduction/fixation surgery!
I am scheduled to have the hardware from a humeral head/neck commuted nearly a year ago. It has been postponed due to the spike in Covid. I can feel the hardware just under the skin with clicking and popping. I have lost mobility recently (which is new symptom). I appreciated that wait and see up to 2 years is ok.
Broke arm last year and had two plates put into my upper arm one at tricep and one at bicep. Lost bit of movement in my shoulder especially internal rotation but I want the plates out as I don’t want to live the rest of my life with these plates in me. I’m 28 years old and I know it’s risky but just feel this is the best course for me
had a humerus shaft fracture and did open reduction internal fixation (titanium plate and 8 screws). Surgery went extremely well, so much to the point that my physiotherapist was surprised that I had no pain post surgery compared to other patients he’s seen. The healing process was smooth sailing. The arm has had full range of motion through physiotherapy and I’m considering just leaving the hardware inside my arm for life. I’ve seen majority of the comments about people removing their hardware, but are there any other people who have made the same decision as I did, and leaving it inside their body?
Hey dr. I had broke my right hand both bones where i had it operated and put plates and screws on it. Its been around 10 years. But there is always problems with my hand movements for example when I write or when I type on PC for a long time. Also when i lift in the gym my hand is a handicap as it hurts and i cant put pressure on it. Should I take out the material? Please help
Hi! I appreciate that you are answering people, that’s very considerate. I have a lisfranc fracture screws and plates, it’s been 6 months which is when I was told the plates would be removed but not the screws. Thanks to Covid this surgery is not happening. You both have suggesting longer wait times can be beneficial, is this so in a lisfranc fracture. I’m still experiencing pain and numbness but am healing slowly all over my foot except where the metalware is. The pain in this section doesn’t change much. I have very little cushioning in this area and am for a lack of a better word- bony 😂 I rather hoped that metalware removal would help because this is what seems to be inhibiting my walking most. And I used to like walking. The broken Tib and fib on the other side certainly don’t help that though. I know it’s it’s a complex injury and everyone heals differently, if they heal so I realise it’s probably not black and white. But for particular injury are there pros/cons to getting the metalware out sooner rather than later? Thanks!
I had a big toe fusion procedure done 12 years ago due to arthritis. The excess bone was removed to reduce the size of the joint. Everything has been fine up until around 18 Months ago where the joint now tingles to such an extent that I cannot sleep at night. I have two screws in the toe joint from that procedure and think that they are the cause of this uncomfortable issue due to natural changes in my foot over the years. If I had these screws removed, will the joint be strong enough to support itself (and my weight of course) going forward? Many Thanks.
I’m Fennie from Philippines and I’m currently suffering a tibial plateau fracture and I’m still waiting to be operated. It’s been more than 2 weeks since the accident happened and when the time I rushed to the hospital they get my x-ray two times because the one who assisted me said he didn’t see any fracture on my x-ray the thing that keep it hurting is because your muscle is swelling, just wait for the final result of your x-ray 5-7 days for now I can’t see fracture. So he just give me medicine for swelling and pain reliever and released me and said I can go home. On the 7th day of waiting the final result of my x-ray, the ortho Doctor said that I have a tibial plateau. We’re so devastated to hear that because we thought there’s no problem and we found out that the doctor who declared I have no fracture was not a doctor, he’s a nurse. And now I’m still waiting to be admitted because the hospitals here won’t cater me because it’s been more than two weeks and I’m out patient it’s not emergency they said and they don’t give me referral slip when infact it’s not our fault why I’m stuck here with a broken bone for more than two weeks now😭😭😭😭 I’m worried about what will happen to me since it’s been more than 2 weeks I got my broken knee. I’m concerned about the risk.
I had a MCP joint fusion in my right thumb due to pain from osteoarthritis combined with a fall onto my palm from a truck tailgate, K wires with a secured a figure 8 tension wire. Had to have them removed about 8 months later because the tendon to my thumb tip was rubbing across the top of it and limiting movement.
i had a humours fracture arm wrestling and when the plate was installed they had to move my ulnar nerve the plate sticks out a bit to the point its visible at the elbow will this cause any problems and should i still get it removed the plate knowing ill have my nerve moved again will this damage the nerve even more then it already is im 23
I had my metal implants fixation both radius and ulna in my right hand and i had them for 11 years now. my concern is im getting random pain in the site of the implants that comes and go. i can bare the pain and still i can get use to manage the pain it just random pain sometimes its bothering and sometimes its bearable. how to know if i have infection in my metal implants? what symptoms should i look for it? when to visit a doctor? well i get metal poisoning from these? by the way i am from Philippines.
Several years ago 2014 I had femur fractures from osteoporosis. I never fell I had therapy few time I had them in both legs. After therapy I started to walk again I still wasn’t able to left my legs to walk up steps but I was doing chores around the house cooking and dishes and sweeping and mopping and laundry. 2016 I was not able too walk at all I’m in chronic pain I hate going anywhere anymore because I suffer just getting dressed and getting in and out of the car to the wheelchair I am going to a pain clinic and I just got a pain pump in November. The Doctor say it’s still pretty low and it will take sometime fore it to be stronger enough where I’m not hurting so bad.
Hi, I am a young adult and live in the UK, I am due to have this removal surgery soon, I am quite accustomed to the whole process as I have been though it before with my other wrist which was removed 2 years after initial surgery, my backstory with my condition/surgery was I have underwent major bilateral corrective osteotomy of both wrists which required me to have a prolonged hospitalization after….., for this removal surgery I have been apprehensive about the whole thing this time around cause of the hardware has been in for longer 8 years and I now have to contend with a health condition of factor 7 difficency hemophillia, this will be my first surgery with this condition so I dont know what to expect or what the experience will be like……, also both of those things could pose significant complications with the removal and of course after postop, going with my previous surgeries I have alway had to be admitted and prolongly hospitalized – days+ due to complications from the recovery room and stay on the ward as my experiences have always been a tough ride……, I think I am ready for it but am apprehensive due to now having the factor 7 condtion and the not knowing, but apparently my ortho consultant surgeon said there will be stuff in place and think they will be extra cautious……., another thing is that its ment to be a day case under general anesthesic with possibly a overnight stay, but going from my other experiences nothing is ever simple with me and I require to be admitted to a inpatient ward after.
I had a ankle fracture 20 years ago, at the age of 12. 4 rods were placed inside which were tied with wires. Now I want to get the rods and wires removed. Docs saying it’s a very risky surgery, as bone scraping might be needed to remove and maybe some part cannot be removed. I have little pain nowadays. Should I go for the surgery?
I had an L5/S1 fusion almost 4yrs ago….for the last 3.5yrs it has been causing pain worse than before I had surgery (I had a broad based grade 4 annular tear, spondylosis, and evidence of a previous fracture on the r pedicle from an accident I had in my youth). My pain management doc says it needs to come out, he’s more than fairly certain it’s the metal…I can’t find a surgeon who is willing to do it. Surgeon who put it in says the pain is all in my head and refuses to even see me anymore…very cocky and offended that I even dare to say his work isn’t needed anymore. The fuse is solid…I don’t need the metal anymore. I’m at my wits end.
I had surgery to remove plate and screws from a fibula fracture because it was showing signs of possible infection. My surgeon also did arthroscopic surgery at the same time to remove a bone spur, scar tissue and repair ligaments. I was sent home in a splint. No pain after the surgery and very little swelling. Three days later I went in for the post op during which the splint was removed and the wounds were wrapped in gauze and a bandage. I was told to remain non-weightbearing (using a walker B/C the crutches didn’t feel safe) and was told to wear the boot 24/7 except when sleeping. Within five hours of being in the boot I had pain, swelling and break-through bleeding. As of this writing I still have four days before stitches are removed. Just wondering why I need the boot if I am essentially non-weightbearing, and especially since it rubs against the tender site of the operation? Seems to be causing many more problems that helping in any way. I hope I will hear back from someone. Thanks…
I;ve listened to this article several times before deciding to remove my clavicle plate. These types of articles never give you assurance of what to do. I think Orthopedics should bring in people of all types of breaks/ages/levels to tell how they felt before and after. They really discouraged me for several years until I removed mine in January 2018. It was put in in september 2007. Here is my story: Depending on the break, the plate should be removed. Even if your doctor placed the plate out of the way so that you could do “normal” activities. I say normal because, it will never be 100 % if you had a break like mine. I was 18, football injury, someone dropped me on the left shoulder. Midshaft, compound fracture, meaning it broke in the middle in two spots. Painful. Plate was placed in with 7 screws laterally, and 2 screws at angles from the topside. Wire wrapped around plate to begin healing. All was well until a year after. I was experience craking in popping when I would move much shoulders up and roll them back during normal day activities. I could never fully return to my max bench press, wasn’t a lot before but I could not press 150 lbs without fear of breaking something. 10 years go by. I went to another ortho and he said he could aliviate 80-90% of the pain and problems I stated above. It always felt weak and when doing anything physical, mixing concrete, holding grocery bags (heavy), always felt like there was tension and I could feel where the plate wasn’t moving but the rest of my anatomy was (bones, muscles, tissue, nerves were alwasy getting pinched or flicked like a tendon).
Hello doctors i m 36 and i would just like to share my story and ask a question if i may. I broke my elbow 2 years ago by falling very hard on it and so they put screws in it ( it felt very strange) and after around 3 months later maybe 2 inches from from the top of the elbow my humerus bone broke ( i guess it was shattered from the fall aswell) so i had to go for another immediate surgery but this time they took out the screws from the elbow and put a whole plate coming from the middle of the humerus bone attaching down to the elbow. Anyways, its been 2 years, i d say it recovered but my arm just doesn’t feel the same no more, very stiff and i m scared to go to the gym or do push ups ( i use to bodybuild and do boxing so it annoyes very much because i know it will never be the same, lost my confidence). My question is, do you think i should take it out or leave it there forever? My surgeon said it should be there for ever, but i m thinking maybe if i take it out it wont feel as stiff anymore but then again i m thinking if i take it out the arm may break again due to do being weak, what do you think? Sorry for the long message, wanted to ask. Also, i can feel the plate on my elbow sticking out and when i do stretch my arm sometimes or most times its like a needle pain.
Should I have them remove my screws? My radius was broken and “fixed” 3 months ago with a titanium plate, and my thumb still isn’t healing properly and the doctor thinks the screws are too long, specifically one that may be interfering with tendons/nerves. Your recommendations are 1-2 years, although I’d rather get it all out if I’m getting some out, but maybe just removing screws is not as risky.
I just got my plates removed 4 1/2 months after double jaw surgery. I think 7 were removed including one in my chin. It took about two hours and i was fine the rest of the day. Take your pain medicine and icepacks immediately its painful but nothing like the first jaw surgery. You will be able to eat, sleep and brush your teeth even the second day at latest. Like another person said the feeling of metal in your body is unsettling but theres more, you might have a genetic CYP mutation which i did, this means my liver cant expunge the foreign metals, this will surely lead to acute problems at least eventually. These doctors dont know everything, toxicology, nutrigenomics is not their specialty. You should get your hardware out at at least 3-4 months but not much later than 6 months ideally. This is for others who are like me, you should do it, if you can afford it. It will be give or take 10k (including anesthesia).
Thanks a lot for a great article-post. I’m not sure if it’s the right place to ask, but in case it is, I will really appreciate a pointer to article/study with regard to pros and con’s of removal of one of screws following the intertrochanteric hip fracture. I found articles that studied 390 people, but I’m looking for a study with bigger number of parameters: factors like age, gender, presence of metabolic malfunctions like diabetics, number of fracture peaces (multiple peaces), number of screws in the head of femur, places that screw went out of the femur head, number of weeks that took to the screw to went out following the fixation surgery. In particular, I want to understand the influence of above factors in terms of a possible damage to the joint due to the outstanding part of the screw that ‘scrubs’ the joint (whether the damage is recoverable or unrecoverable). And also in terms of construction, meaning the influence of the screw removal on the construction strength (given an unhealed bone in a timeline of several weeks after the fixation surgery).
Hello Doctors, thank you for your prior response & kind words. It’s been decided by my diabetic brother’s doctors that his metal plate & screws (reinforcing his comminuted upper humerus) should be removed permanently in a few days after it’s been in for ~11 weeks, in order to try completely kill off the postoperative infection via IV. Do you have any commentary on how his arm might hold up without the metal & what we could do to keep it strong/safe? Thank you.
I fractured my clavicle 6 months ago playing ice hockey. Had orif of clavicle. 6 months later still a lot of pain in my shoulder and cant push lift anything over 5lbs or overhead reach. My shoulder specialist wants an mri. Ive tried 3 times different mri machines and the radiologist and have cancelled it because they said too much metal on my clavicle the magnet of mri machine will cause issues and pain for me during mri. So now my doctor wants to remove the hardware. Then once healed do mri to see if there is a labrum tear to repair. Im not sure what to do. I have a job that involves heavy lifting and ive been off for 6 months. I just want my life back.
I had to have my femur plate removed after 17 months because my Iliotibial Band was damaged and required repair due to the damage from the plate. The flow on effect was I was required to use my crutches for about another three months, due to be gone looking like Swiss cheese from the screws. Iliotibial Band pain is terrible, I was unable use a standard chair. I could sit down but couldn’t stand up and the pain was so bad.
Well just an update on surgery metalwork removal situation, which is happening in few days and getting real!!!!!!!….., So apparently it can go ahead as if I was a ‘normal’paitient, so I am told by my ortho consultant surgeon, following the advise given from my hemo consultant that thinks that at my level ‘mild’ it shouldn’t be a big problem……., however taking in this information has kind of concerned and aggravated me big time and come as a total shock as I have recently updated them ‘bleeding history wise’, that if I get a bad deep shaving cut, I can bleed for 3hrs……, I also mentioned what I have went gone through with my past surgeries experience ‘extreme pain/swelling/bruising’ literally felt like compartment syndrome that I had first original surgery, on top of everything else, forlaying this at my recent hemo appointment….. now following this memo of ‘she is mild, shouldn’t be a problem’ situation that everyone involved will act as if it is just nothing to worry about and treat me like I am any other normal paitent, but then it will turn into a big deal and come back to bit them big time afterwards, which does kind of make me feel even more paranoid about the whole thing as thier could be unforeseen circumstances, and to top things of i am really unwell after anyway…… I feel like i have the right to be even more terrified by this whole process and the information I have been told and even more so that i have recently found out my iron/ferritin levels are on the low end and below normal, I did infact get given a course of iron tablets.
Boy oh boy are they right if you don’t have to take it out you should never take it out. Just recently I went in for surgery because my fibula was fractured. During the operation I woke up I didn’t feel pain but I woke up and I remember it. Then when they were finished they went to bring me out of the anesthesia I was violet. Biting the tube and it took 10 people to hold me in place they tied down my hands and my legs. Then they put me on a ventilator tube down my throat. I woke up during that a couple times finally after two days of being in the ICU on a ventilator they took it out and moved me to a different part of the hospital. That was one of the most terrifying experiences of my life being stuck on a ventilator not being able to move my hands or my feet I could talk and hear myself but nobody else could hear me there’s no way snowball’s chance in hell am I going in for surgery for anyting
Thankyou so much for this very useful info,,,I have had all my hardware out 5 weeks ago this was 16 pins and 1 eight inch plate and 1 4 inch plate,,,the wound has healed great but the pain that I am in is constant,it changes area daily and swells too around the ankle,friends say I am expecting too much too soon,I am weight bearing,but just want to feel normal agin
Quick question. Dr. Weening said that you should have a plate removed if you can see the hardware digging through the skin. What does he mean by that? I still have a plate in my elbow after I broke it about 6-7 years back. It pushes against the skin a bit, to the point where when I extend my arm there’s a little bit of excess skin. I haven’t really had any problems with the plate outside of that and the occasional bursitis if I accidentally wack it. It doesn’t impact exercise and I still have a full range of motion. I know removal is done a case by case basis. Is this enough that I should consult a local surgeon about it?
I’m a Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma survivor and had an emergency operation done to my neck because my 2nd vertebrae was attacked and destroyed. 75% of my C2 vertebrae was eaten by the cancer. I had heap bone extract added to my neck during surgery. I have been living with a C1 through C3 and C4 fusion since December 2016 and in 2021 I discovered that one of the pins broke off. Ever since that I have been experiencing excruciating pain down both my arms and legs. I sometimes become lame in my arms and legs as well. I’ve gone to my surgeon and asked if they could remove it but they declined. I don’t want to live like this anymore. It’s been going on for almost a year now…
I fractured each side of my ankle and my tibia🤦🏻♀️ i have incisions of both side of my ankle and a metal plate and screws placed. I have an appointment with orthopaedics next week as i can feel my plate, i have so much pain and pressure coming from surgical site and still cannot fit a shoe on 16 weeks later due to the pain. I worry what the doctor suggests but he’s the professional and I’ll try anything😢
dr, does the plate and screw have any effect in winter? I’m from a tropical country, I would like to work in another country where it has winter, but I have plates and screws inside the body, which are not removed and I have no complaints about that, many of them say if you ever break a bone. then you will get pain in the winter and can’t work, and the conditions for being able to work are also one of which is no history of broken bones, I can walk normally, it happened 4 years ago, what should I do, dr?
My doctor recommended my plate to be removed. It’s been nine months and pain and certain hand movements are a bummer. I am very happy about it. I can easily feel the screws in my forearm. As you gentlemen stated, my doctor wants to make sure whatever lingering pain is not being caused by the plate. I do have a question(s). Will another nerve block be in place for hardware removal and how long until returning to work. I know staples/ stitches are in for a good 2 weeks.
Thanks for sharing this informative article. I have one question pls, I have a tibia plate operation, as I had great pain on my right knee, doe to my football injury’s, but after 1 year of operation, I am still in lots of pain and still can’t run properly, so the question is removing the metal plate, would that help, with the pain and the swelling? Thanks 🙏
I fractured my knee the i have I have one plate and screws all the way around the knee they’re removing the the hardware can I walk without crutches after removal of the hardware I recently had rotary cuff repair on my left shoulder I am now parsley out of the brace the block has been removed from the brace the hardware was putting on June 11th of this year they’re now setting it up to get their hardware removed they had to a plug into the bone to feel some of the damage
It has been 6 months since ORIF of my bimalleolar ankle fracture which was fixed with a plate and 5 screws. Plus additional 2 screws into the fibula and 2 screws on the lower end of tibia. I have pain every day and it is swollen all the time. I have big knot next to my ankle bone. I also do not have full ROM in my ankle. I also have had tender lymph nodes in my neck which started a few weeks after my ankle surgery. I am wondering if I am sensitive to the metal and where do I start to evaluate my situation. Wondering if all the hardware should be removed.
Two years ago I broke and shattered my left femur while hurrying down my carpeted stairs. also broke the left wrist. A steel rod and screws were used. Next week I will visit my orthopedic surgeon to see if the bone has healed enough to remove the rod and screws.. I work hard every day to heal the bone. The leg hurts after sleeping and several time during the day. I’ve used Doterra Deep Blue Rub every day since which helps. I am 80 years old otherwise in excellent health. Would you suggest removing the plate. It is my dream to have it done with some reservations. Thank you for you help.
If i have a wire in my radius fracture but bone already healed training hand 9 months still big limits to use my wrist and feeling like becuz of the wire it wont let me make a better moves but doctor says need train corectly i training for all days evryday 1hour a day using rn resist band and basketball ball and flex bar
Hi Docs, I recently had a slip and fall on a wet floor resulting in my left ankle breaking. It was a Trimalleolar ankle break and I had to have surgery. The surgery was a success. After 2 weeks post-op, I was put into a fiberglass cast non-weight bearing. Unfortunately, the crutch slipped while I was using them. The heal of the cast hit the ground and then I fell. I called the orthopedic centre and the cast tech said the cast provides protection for things like this and it is fine. It has now been a total of 4 weeks since the surgery. I have a long plate and screws in the Fibula and a short plate and screws in the Tibia. I am feeling a jabbing pain near bottom of the in incision site of the Fibula. Is this the incision or am I feeling the screw(s) against my skin and would the post-op fall have affected/bent the screws and compromised ankle’s healing? I’m very worried
I have 2 plates in right arm. The one on the side I can feel it running my fingers along it. I can’t see it but can sure feel it and if in the sun it heats up. The other plate doesn’t bother me. I’m curious however is the pain about the same as getting it out as it was going in. I like to listen to drs best advice. Sadly the dr who did this surgery passed away last year to ask.
hello doctors, me 3 years ago i fall off my motorcycle i hit the sidewalk my jaw got dislocated they fixed it with a plate and 2 screws but since a year ago after being healed 100% i still see a little bump where the screws and plate is located and sometimes the same spot it gets infected on the morning and swollen and i feel the plate 24/7 not comfortable at all specially when i am sleeping sometimes when i turn my head the plate pull my vein and freeze my neck i feel like the vein about to torn up, when i look up you can see the plate come outta my neck make me look like i have double jaws. please tell me what to do?
Hi Docs! Thank you so much for posting this article and for taking the time to help out everyone through the comments. I had an ulnar shortening osteotomy post distal radius/ulnar styloid fx earlier this summer. Everything seemed to be going well post-op until I hit the 8 week mark and had a big increase in my activities and started to do a lot more with my arms. After about a week of increased activity I got pretty bad tendinitis (suspected) over the surgical site and ecu tendon. The skin surrounding my scar and over the distal ulna is now numb. I’m 18 years old and am striving to be a surgeon in my future, so I’m a little concerned about long term effects from this, considering I want to be using full dexterity of my hands in the future. I definitely will be talking to my surgeon about it but I came across this article and would like to get your advice if you have the time. Do you have any ideas why the area over the incision is suddenly numb?
Hi I’m glad I came across this article, I have been having excruciating pain in the ankle with metal plates and screws, surgery was 4 years ago, I just had X-rays done it shows the bone has healed,The pain is on the outer side of the ankle, and shoots up pain where I can’t sit, bend or walk, as the pain on the lower leg is intense, I had an MRI to check for sciatica, doctor said there is some bone lose very minor and maybe the nerve is making contact with bone, but I am not sure it’s sciatica as the pain starts where the plate is, just wanted to know if you have ever heard of that type of pain from ankle plates. Thank you so much for anything you can say.
Tibia plateau fracture on July 9th 2018 with compartment syndrome and infection. 31 days in the hospital and 9 surgeries. Been living with 2 large plates and numerous screws. I still have knee pain and I am so tired of feeling like I am 80. I was outside trying to mow the lawn today and got 80% done and felt like I was going to collapse. it’s stiff in the morning and by night it’s usually soar. I still use ice around it still a year later about every other day. I don’t know if it’s the hardware or the leg itself. Not sure what to do. Just really tired of not being able to walk a long distance or even mowing my lawn.
um i have to have no hardware on my clavicle after it heals i need to have full range for my activitys ive read up on this and if you leave it in and it can cause major harm to you if you live a very active life lifting weights or play sports im also a smaller person and the hardware will be sticking out of my skin so what should i do i m having a hard time breathing and my neck keeps popping since i got hit my car i read that theres alternative options to plates which is just a screw that goes all the way through the clavicle bone is this ok to do for a active person who needs all their motion back how do i make sure the screw is going to be up to the jobs i need it to perform at a high level please give me your advice on this the doctors i feel have almost no clue what they are talking about 97 percent of the time just do what makes them money and lie to the client
Hi! I had bunion correction surgery 5 years ago on my left big toe and had a few screws and a plate installed. I’ve had pain, stiffness, and swelling on a regular basis and I’m considering getting them removed. I was wondering what the recovery from it would be like. Originally I had to stay completely off my feet for 2 weeks and wear a boot for 6 weeks. Will I need to be off my feet for an extended amount of time again? I forget the name of the technique the doctor used but he cut some of my metatarsal bone out to shorten it. Since it’s now shortened, should I be concerned about the bunion coming back? From what I understand, the bone was too long and that’s what cause the bunion. Removing the plate and screws won’t change the length of my metatarsal bone so I’m guessing the chances are low but I would hate to have it removed and then have the bunion come back. I recently moved and haven’t found a doctor here to see for this problem so I appreciate any answers you can give me. Thank you!
Hi, I had 2 screws for a left distal femur 10yrs ago. I was okay with the screws avoiding the things that cause me pain. In 2022, I started having a lot of pain on my whole left leg while doing activities I used to do before like walking and standing, sleeping on my left. After consultation, I was told it’d be best to remove the screws to see if that was the cause of the pain. It’s now 10 weeks post op and I feel tiredness on that leg, pain and can’t squat, or move how I used to before op. I’m almost feeling regret for removing the screws. Was removing the screws the best way to go about ? it?
Hi Doctors, I have a metal plate & screws on my fibula bone. I want to do a detox with zeolite or bentonite, because the town water is contaminated, & I have all sorts of health issues, because we were never told… But I read that when mixing the zeolite with water to drink daily to detox, that you should not use a metal spoon, or the zeolite will draw out metal ions from the spoon, that will go into your zeolite solution, then into your body. So that has made me question whether the zeolite is just going to get attracted to the metal plate in my leg, & not take any toxins out of my body at all. Thoughts? I am hoping that you will tell me, that the metal plates & screws are coated or not prone to metal ion breakdown..
Hi Docs, I had FFS surgery (Facial Feminization Surgery) in 2018 and my surgeon but titanium on my forehead and titanium on chin for soft feminine look. I just realized that I do not want titanium in my face anymore because it freaks me out and I still have swelling in my chin and it could be from the titanium. Is it possible to remove titanium plates? If Yes, what can replace the plates?
Sir I had undergone proximal radius surgery, inserted a metal plate, the radius broke at the 1/3rd of the proximal, it has been 2.5 years. My question is it necessary to take it out or not? Doctors said it may be riskier to take it out because the surgery was done cutting the forearm and a nerve is there, it may cause permanent hand movement failure.