Can metal plates be removed?

Can metal plates be removed?

Orthopaedic hardware (plates, screws, nails and other pieces of metal or implants) can be removed because the patient finds the hardware painful or irritating.

When can plates and screws be removed?

Dr. Foreman: Typically, we like to wait a minimum of one year following surgery to remove hardware, which you have attained. If x-rays show the fractures to be well-healed, then the plates and screws can be removed if you desire.

Should metal plate be removed from ankle?

I learned that plates and screws used to fix an ankle fracture are not removed if they don’t cause problems and most people do not have problems. Ankle hardware can remain in place permanently. According Kaiser Permanente statistics, 80% of patients never have the standard hardware removed.

When should Orif plates be removed?

Ideally, plate removal should be performed three months after surgery, when the bone is already consolidated. It is a simple procedure that is performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, although with the pass of time the procedure becomes more difficult, as the plates gradually integrate with the bone.

Should I have the plate and screws removed from my ankle?

Some healthcare providers will recommend the removal of syndesmotic screws used for high ankle sprains before weight-bearing is resumed. 1 With that being said, most studies have found no difference in outcomes when comparing retained screws or removed one.

How soon can you walk after hardware removal?

You will get back to most of your activities by 6 weeks. Swelling often remains for 6 months. You are expected to experience a FULL recovery (no pain, no swelling, ability to walk, etc.) in 6 months.

How do you prepare for hardware removal?

Make a list of all the medications you are taking and bring it with you when you register at the hospital. Include any allergies you may have to certain medications or metals. You may be asked to take a urine or blood test prior to the procedure. Before surgery, your physician will order x-rays of the hardware.

How bad is hardware removal surgery?

Complications of Hardware Removal In order to remove the implant from the bone, there is typically a weakening of the bone. Screws removed to leave a hole in the bone, plates may leave a deformity in the bone. Removing these implants may weaken the bone where the implant was used.

When do you remove metal plates and screws?

A further fracture can occur through the screw holes. It takes a number of months for the bone where the plate was removed to regain its strength. Bottom line therefore to the question (in an adult) as to whether to remove the hardware once the fracture has healed: No. – If it is not causing any problems at all. Yes.

How long does it take to recover from metal plate removal?

After removal of the hardware wait at least 12 weeks before participating in contact sports. A further fracture can occur through the screw holes. It takes a number of months for the bone where the plate was removed to regain its strength.

When does the plate have to be taken out?

Patients often ask, “Will the plate have to be taken out?” during our discussions about fixing bad wrist fractures or fractures in other parts of the hand and arm. Some patients ask this after a successful surgery when the bone is healed. The purpose of a plate and screws (or any metal hardware) in fracture treatment

What are the criteria for plate removal surgery?

Plate removal surgery is done through the same incision as the original surgery. Here are some criteria I use for taking out hardware: the fracture must be healed. at least three and preferably six months have passed since the original surgery.

Back To Top