At 61 yrs old my husband fractured his left femur skiing and had a plate and screws inserted to heal his femur. After he recovered the screws really irritated his knee and he complained about the pain but they couldn't be removed. Fast forward to his unrelated death at 65, he was cremated and those screws survived! I had a good laugh when I found them. It was like he was laughing, too.
I am 74 and never broke anything. Had a hip replacement 5 yrs ago because of arthritic, so hopefully, I will be dead before that might need to be replaced! Love you guys! You are just too funny!
@@TalkingWithDocs Can vitamin B9(folate/L-5-MTHF), B3, B12, ZINC, vit A, vit C, vit D, Quercetin Which of these supplements be taken in conditions like too much urination and UTI?
My surgery was for perforated disk and disk deteriorated vertebrae it got infected and they had to go in a take the hardware out. Now after that I have. Ern excruciating pain in my right side and leg which I never had before but they all look at me like it in my head. My first surgery was good except for the infection I would have been fine. Damage to right hip and now severe electrical current from my thigh to my knee. Please help
I had Tibia Nail removed after 25 years of being in place in order to have a full knee replacement. My surgeon told me that they can't always remove them after such a long time of being in place. Fortunately mine did come out, but not easily! One year later I had my knee replacement and now 2 years later I am living pain free. Thank you to all the wonderful surgeons out there who can make a difference in someone's life.
@@TalkingWithDocs Can vitamin B9(folate/L-5-MTHF), B3, B12, ZINC, vit A, vit C, vit D, Quercetin Which of these supplements be taken in conditions like too much urination and UTI?
I broke my lower right leg's tibia and fibula while running a track meet as collegiate athlete, due to an unbeknownst stress fracture. Had surgery to repair the facture with a titanium plate and screw along with a bone graft from my right hip, to put around the fracture to promote healing. Now, some 28yrs later, the hardware is still in my leg and I've had no ill effects. Coupled with the bone has calcified around the hardware, so basically I now have a SUPER STRONG LEG!! 🙂
Just simply miraculous that I have had ‘parts’ replaced and ‘parts’ screwed back together. We may take this for granted over time. I wish these miracles existed for my parents while they were alive. So much pain, suffering and misery could have been avoided.
@danielfallon3363 •I would not be here without it I have spinal pelvic fixation due to big accident I had far far more pain before the K Wires they removed.I did not know they where in I was in huge huge pain that I can't describe-I was praying for a mallet to fall on my head ..Put me out of my Misery .Mine worked I can walk I am disabled but the pain was gone day 3 after waiting 13 days for the operation..So I guess times change also Titanium is as strong as me ..
Great topic. I have 2 screws my spine from an L4/5 fusion that was done 8 years ago. After the surgery, I asked the neurosurgeon if the screws would come out at a later date. He stated that if I weighed 100 pounds he would take them out because they are close to the surface. But, with me he would not think about removing them because I have enough muscle/fat for a cushion that they should not bother. He also said he would remove them if they irritated me or if I got an infection. So far, so good. Keep up the great work Docs!
@davideaenest4178 mine is a spinal pelvic fixation due to 4 Transverse Process Fracture and a Jumpers Fracture of my Pelvis they detached themselves in an accident I think people forget the pain they where in before the accident I was screaming or out of no use of my bladder or bowel -It's no easy task getting all that in there minus someone very ill dying I have an issue where they could not do anything to my left smashed to smithereens(Crushed Calcaneum )😢 But it's being sorted with Orthotic Boots personally I am very grateful to be alive times change it's nearly 10 years since my accident .Next June .I am starting 1/1 physio as I had a TBI the year afterwards my ringtone is "I am titanium "
I have a one-year-old titanium hip. I’m a 75-year-old mostly sedentary female. Sometimes I am aware of the stem going down into my leg. It’s achy, not really painful. But I will deal with it, not wanting to go through hip surgery again (it was for arthritis). I told my surgeon and he said we’ll “watch it.”
Thank you for covering this topic. I have plates and screws in my ankle and have always wondered about this. You guys are a favorite channel and always give great information. Love the format
Hi docs~ You are always so informative and helpful. Thank you. I dislocated and broke my left ankle on both sides in 2006. The orthopedic surgeon put a plate and screws on one side and screws on the inside. I did intensive physio and at age 74, am still good! I asked the surgeon about six months after the surgery if the plate and screws would be removed. He asked if they were bothering me. No. I only do surgery if I think it will improve something, was his answer. They are still in there! And I am grateful. cheers
I love y’all’s channel! I got a plate and 10 screws in my left elbow after I was hit by a car while riding my bicycle. Although it’s in a very superficial place and I feel it all the time I would not want to have another surgery to get it removed.
I had both pins removed from broken hips. They were uncomfortable, and after a year, each of the hips had completely healed. First hip fracture at age 30, the second at age 45. I am small boned with a history of fractures, but at age 71, I am doing fine.
January 11th I went in for left knee replacement. Surgery went fine. That afternoon I was going to stand up with 2 people helping. As soon as I stood, I felt a horrible pain in my left leg. Got back into bed and X-ray came in. I didn’t know what was happening. I had broken my left femur. January 13 had surgery to put the femur back together with a plate and screws. I had to go to rehab, nursing home, and back to rehab. Wasn’t allowed to stand for 10 weeks. Finally got home mid April. During rehab/pt my back was giving me a lot of pain. No one checked my back until I begged to have X-rays. Two vertebrae had crumbled and several need to be rebuilt. I’m 73 and had not had a DEXA since I was 50. Had that and found I have osteoporosis and am high fracture risk. Please encourage people 65 and older to get a scan. Thank you…
Same here! I agree! Ladies, of ANY age, get a scan before any ortho surgery! Demand it. Had lumbar fusion at three levels. Completely failed. Second opinion Dr found Osteoporosis I never knew I had, Screws, rods have all failed and I am way worse off than before. Dr said "it is like trying to put a screw into styrofoam". If a Dr wants or needs to do ANY ortho surgery, and does not send you for a Dexa scan, there is your red flag flying high! Run, do not walk away from that Dr! Be your own advocate! I don't care if you have to pay for it yourself. You must know!
@@ClareHarrison-qi3bw I asked that question. The answer was the primary care doctor is responsible for letting them know if there’s an issue with bone density. My doctor overlooked my needing a scan and I didn’t realize I should ask for one. What I didn’t mention is I’m having to do daily injections with a med that costs me $668 for 28 day dose! That’s my cost after insurance. I’m trying to get help from the pharmaceutical company since I have to take it for a year.
I have screws in my right femur head and had my left hip replaced, plus I have two long sacral screws, all from a pedestrian vs car accident 2 years ago. Sitting for longer periods bothers my sacral screws, but I’m happy to be put back together!
I’ve had five screws in my left ankle from a broken talus bone, from a mountain bike accident, for the last thirty years. So far so good, now I’m 59 and jump rope as part of my exercise routine. Doctors at UCLA did a good job. I’ll never forget all the stainless steel tools they had arranged on a table. There were chisels, hammers, screwdrivers etc. I jokingly asked if someone was going to put up some cabinets. The doctor laughed and said it was a lot like wood working. Then they put me under.
I had major foot surgery 3 years ago. Bunion and had my second toe shortened. I am now experiencing a lot of pain in the big toe. My surgeon said that sometimes they need to remove the hardware but I have been avoiding making that call because it took over a year to fully heal from that procedure. So I’m going to call now. Thank you!
One more reason to take out hardware. A screw I had in my foot that I had since the early 70's had to come out because I needed an MRI on that foot. It was metal that was not friendly with the MRI machine. I now have 5 screws in the foot, all because of post-traumatic osteo-arthritis. I'm having a rt knee replacement in 24. My right knee and foot will be bionic. It will be great to have better mobility. I'm 77 and love your channel.
I have 8 pins in my left wrist from a crushed wrist. I have never had any problems with it and don't plan to get them taken out. Thanks for all the info you provide. I watch all your videos.
@@TalkingWithDocs Can vitamin B9(folate/L-5-MTHF), B3, B12, ZINC, vit A, vit C, vit D, Quercetin Which of these supplements be taken in conditions like too much urination and UTI?
Hi docs & thank you. I am 74 & had spinal fusion surgery when I was 62. I was told that w/o it, I would end up living in a wheelchair. I had been suffering with pain related scoliosis. Since then, I have been in constant pain & have been unable to find a doctor who will see me. I now live with 2 rods & 20 screws!
I feel your pain in a different way. Although I have orthopedic hardware in a few places with almost no issue. I had a lot hernia mesh put in my abdomen that has been constant issue since installed in 2012. I can't get a surgeon to do anything about it despite constant MRSA infections in it. Hell, my local ER won't even treat me, they force me to go back to VCU where it was put in just for antibiotics, and that is a 2+ hour drive away. I wish you the best of luck finding someone to give you some relief.
Thank you for reassurance on the bolts in my foot. The foot is larger than its mate so finding sensible shoes can be hard. I still do prescribed exercises and dodge the arthritis. Thankful for the healers and helpers who gave back my life!😊
I have a plate and several screws in my right ankle; the result of a slip and fall on ice back in 2015. So far, so good. Not experiencing any complications.
I slipped on ice, broke my fibula, separated ankle joint, tore out ligaments. One year after surgery, I had all screws and plate removed because the screws were sticking out under the skin of my ankle bone. I couldn’t wear footwear for that year because the screws rubbed against the shoe. I can walk pain free now. I was very happy to have the hardware removed. With spinal anesthetic the removal surgery was easy, and only 14 minutes. It was so worthwhile.
Hey docs, great info and fun delivery :) 18 years ago I had a shattered L clavicle and had ORIF. after 2 years I had it removed due to some discomfort. Results were fantastic all around! Fast-forward to 2020, I broke my R clavicle (shatter again) and R hip for good measure :| Had ORIF plate and screws to patch things up while my body healed itself. At exactly the 3 year mark (covid pooched my surgery at the 2 yrs mark), I had all the hardware removed :) Best thing I ever did! The limp and discomfort from my hip hardware (groin alignment plate and outer plate/anker) is not a thing of the past! I was very fortunate that all 4 incisions healed super nicely like I am20 (I'm 52), great sutures (by request, no staples please) skills. Feeling around all incisions is almost 100%. I'm at 9 weeks from hardware removal and back to 100% activities. For a speedy recovery, I did acupuncture (swelling and healing), physio (mobility), chiropractor (posture and alignment), massage (muscle relaxation), osteopath (mobility and release tension), myofascial release (range of motion and release tension), Dolphin Neurostim MPS (scar release), Micro Pulse PEMF (rapid bone healing and circulation), ultrasound, cupping, Gua Sha as well as all of IF/EMS/MIC/TENS/NMES (would love to hear the docs take on pros/cons/applications of electro-therapy). I started seeing practitioners within first week leading with acupuncture, and all stims within 7-10 days, leading with PEMF on surgery day. I've had a good few bumps, bruises and fractures as I do enduro dirt bike riding in Summer and dirt bike snowbiking in Winter. My body's ability to heal is very well exercised ;) I hope this helps someone and sparks great conversations!
Well I have a plate with 2 screws in my right wrist I broke in a fall, I have an artificial knee in my left knee,and I have screws in my neck from a cervical procedure and I am 76 years old and enjoy all your videos always bring a smile to my face.
I have some metal in my ankle. I broke it in such a way that surgery was necessary for it to heal properly. Thank you for these videos! A lot of the information is really helpful.
I'm 75 years old, had cages put in as spacers in the vertebrae L5-S1 area, during fusion, the cages shifted and are pressing on nerves, and cause a lot of pain. Should and/or can they be removed and if removed what will happen.
I have screws and rods from T6 all the way down, from disc wear. Big surgery 7 hours two surgeons. Has been fourteen months since the surgery. The topic of removal has never been discussed. I suspect the removal may be potentially damaging.
@@TalkingWithDocsI’m scared, because I’m experiencing a lot of chronic pain, some of which could be related to my implants along my thoracic. I’m investigating things with my PCP like EDS for other pain, but removal is being discussed as an option with my surgeon. But it sounds like there’s a risk of it not improving, or getting worse afterwards. It’s hard to find people talking about their post-op experience in the long term, but I wonder if any studies have been done on it?
I fractured my tib/fib while running at the beach (a large dog ran into me). I had a plate laterally and large screws medically. The two screws were very uncomfortable so at 1 year the surgeon took them about and I felt SO much better. Later during a knee arthroscopy he took out the plates. I’m much more comfortable with it all out and glad that I had them removed.
Doc's, Back in 2006 I had the pleasure of hosting a Colles fracture on my left wrist. Have been fairly active on my rowing machine ever since and my pins and plate have never, ever bothered me. Really appreciate orthopedic surgeons and your the videos!
In July 204 I slipped off a curb and broke my shoulder, humerus bone in my arm and also 3 bones in my ankle. It has been 5 months and the arm is getting better , when I wake up it is sore. the ankle is another story. Where the plate and screw is, still painfully to walk. it feels like a tight band across the crease on my foot and where the plate is hurts to walk and feels like it is burning all the time. I tried to grocery shop today and half way through my foot hurt enough that I was afraid I would fall again because of the pain. it has been 5 months and the doctor said it should have been better in 6-8 weeks. I can’t stand long enough to cook in the kitchen it hurts. I have done everything right , pt daily, ice, elevate, brace.
Have a titanium plate and screws on my clavicle from a break incurred from a snowboarding crash. It's been there almost 2 years, and has been problem free. Got new hardware installed yesterday, with a right total knee replacement.
Have a screw in ankle after dislocated and broke, no issue after 30 years. Have new hip two weeks ago, anterior approach and walking on own already without cane.
I had a trimalleolar break a year ago, and a plate and screws were inserted. Although I have healed well, I am in constant pain. I have just made an appointment to meet the surgeon and discuss removal of the metal hardware.
I had L4-S1 fusion hardware removed back in 2007 but the surgeon was already going to be in there doing work above the fusion at L3-L4. He asked be before the surgery if I wanted it out and I told him to go ahead and remove it. I actually have those rods and screws (cleaned, of course) in a sealed plastic bag. Beyond that, I have two hip replacements and two knee replacements in there right now. The right knee has worn out and is in need of a revision. Oh...I'm 50 and had my first knee replacement at 35.
I asked my surgeon for some of my hardware that he was going to remove during my third lumbar fusion. He said he had to “return it to the manufacturer for stress testing”.
I took of the top of my tibia in 2006, well down into the bone, and had a L-shaped plate, with seven screws, installed to hold everything together. All was fine while I was wearing the brace but when I was able to sleep without it, it became evident that one of the screws was sticking out through the bone and poking into the muscle next to it. I waited six months for additional healing and had everything removed. No problems since. (The surgeon gave me the hardware and it's impressive.)
I had a workplace injury of a shattered kneecap . The surgeon picked out the bone fragments and kept it together with a wire . I had to have a second operation after three weeks because the wire popped loose which meant at the time another 3 days in the hospital under heavy sedation . I should have had another operation to take the wire out or trim . Now 9 years later I have much grinding and pain . Now I more than likely will have to have a knee replacement . Patients need to go back for evaluations . I was asked one time by the doctor , still in his scrubs if I would like to have it taken out while I was still working . I asked him if it would help he said he did not know . I would have had to take off a large amount of time again from work . I must have been his first shattered kneecap . Your posts are great .
I have 3 pins for slipped epiphesis when I was 12. Biggest mistake was to have them removed 5 years later. They had calcified in and femur was cracked upon removal attempt. Slipped and fell amonth later and broke femur. After another round in a body cast left leg is half an inch shorter, now have so many issues from 50 years later.
Just had my hardware removed Aug. 30th in my Rh ankle. Initial injury was Feb. 2021. I broke both my ankles after a small stool “kicked out” from under me and forced both my feet into the cement. I broke my Tib / Fib & Talus on my Lh (and also tore my Perineal tendon 7cm). And had Tri mailular fracture w/widening of the ankle mortise on my Rh. Spent 9 days in the hospital. Had one surgery on my Rh foot, which entailed 2 plates with 17 screws. Total non weight bearing for 11 weeks. Then countless hours of PT. Second surgery to repair the Perineal tendon in Sept. 2021, which again put me non weight bearing on the Lh side. Arthritis has totally dominated my Rh foot & the hardware was extremely uncomfortable. FINALLY had it all removed August 30, 2023. It feels so much better ☺️. Still looking at a total joint replacement, but I am being told (especially due to my young age 54) to put it off as long as possible. We are just trying to keep the arthritis at bay, or at least manageable. (I really don’t want to take it due to the kidney implications, but I do. Otherwise, I would not have much quality of life….sadly
Broke my right ankle in three places in June. Plates and screws on both sides. Had to have one screw removed but the rest will hopefully be able to stay in for life with no complications. All good so far.
My mother had the hardware in her ankle removed 20 years after placement due to infection. It was a long post op recovery involving iv antibiotics, non-weightbearing, and skin grafting.
I have plate & screws in my tibia from a compound fracture leaving my leg at least 1" longer. You can feel the screws easily & I have pain on my shin when walking with swelling of the lower leg if I walk too much. definitely effecting my activity level! I had a TKR 2 yrs following on the same leg & the Dr. would not remove the plate. Now I have been told that there is a risk of infection & they won't remove it. Thank you for your videos! Nice to have Dr.s from Canada!🇨🇦
I had two planned jaw surgeries due to extreme over jet. The first one was lower jaw (6 pins/screws) and a genioplasty (plate and screws), then the second surgery was upper jaw surgery (four plates with many pins).
Neither the plate in my wrist, nor the two plates and the mass of screws in my right ankle have caused me the slightest problem since they were put in to fix bones broken in falls. Big shout out to both surgeons - thank you thank you thank you. Both joints work wonderfully well and I know how much those surgeons' skill has added to the quality of my life. I hiked Hadrian's Wall this summer and while blisters were a problem the ankle wasn't in the slightest.
I had wrist orif, so painful, no movement, terrible, had it removed, pain reduced immediately, rom improved by a small amount, devastated, very fit and active person. Still have small amounts of pain 2 years after.
I tore my alnar away from the triangular fibrocartilage complex. Had the Alnar shortened and reattached. They placed metal work along side of the alnar to allow it to fuse correctly. Then I had constant pain on twisting my forearm. I was speaking to my GP at time stating this hurts when I twist my forearm. He then stated "What's this" pointing to a lump on my forearmed he touched it and the lump disappeared it was the screws coming out. Then I had to have all the metalwork removed.
Broke my fibula when I ran out of talent riding a 600lb adventure motorcycle with street tires in the ID mud. Wound up with plate and screws. Was walking on it again in about 7 weeks, thanks to our talented local ortho trauma surgeon.
Had jaw plates removed today after a year. They were irritating but the surgeon said the irritation may be coming from the scarring. It’s been like a piece of wood between my gums and lip. I’m currently swollen and sore and am eager to see if there will be any difference. I’m glad the metal is out though.
Hey! Thank you so much for this video! I have been on the fence on whether to take out my hardware or not. In 2017 I jumped off of a cliff into water (not the brightest idea but I was a thrill seeker). In doing so, I landed more slanted on my chest and with the impact of the water, ended up fracturing my sternum. I was rushed to the ER and eventually had a sternum plate with screws put into my sternum. 7 years later my bone has healed and my quality of life is fine. I only occasionally, when over extending my arms, lifting heavy objects in a certain angle, stretching in a certain way, bending over in a certain angle, laying on my chest or side, etc, feel pain in the area where my plate was screwed into my chest. This is not every time^^ but is noticeable maybe once/ twice a week or every other week. It almost feels like a rubbing or slight grinding. The pain lasts 1sec- 3 sec. Sometimes I have a pinching feeling and I have to move my body and arms in a way to “pull it back in place” or to get rid of the uncomfortable feeling. I have had everyone and their mother, including surgeons, saying that it might not be worth it to take it out. But I am unsure. I feel like I need an another opinion. If you guys have time I would love to hear your thoughts on my situation. I appreciate you guys and your video so much. Have an amazing day! 🙏
I had a plate and 6 screws after crushing my radial head (was bucked off my horse and landed right on the elbow!) ….had to have it removed 9 months later as I actually bent it! It’s been my keychain now for the past 15 years!
Wrist fracture about 15 years ago left me with a cool little dagger shaped plate holding it together. No intention of removing at this point. It left a prominent and visible bump on the underside of the wrist that only bothers me when I bump it on something. On the upside it is fun to show people. It creeps out some and fascinates others.
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
I will be 26 in a few months and I also have a plate and screws in my ankle. They cause me so much discomfort and pain. A lot of older folk tell me to keep it but as a young person I do not want this stuff in my body forever and potentially getting infected. Thank you for sharing!
@ no problem luv. I was also in pain and discomfort but I just felt like I wanted my ankle to feel as close as possible to the way it was pre injury. I did physio and strength training but the hardware makes so much difference. My mom being a nurse she tried to talk me out of having it removed. Just trust your gut
@ did you have more nerve damage after the removal? That’s the only thing I am worried about. I hate how my foot sometimes feels like sandpaper but I would rather deal with that than have restrictions from the hardware!
@ yeah I know what you mean. I have a spot on top of my foot that I can barely feel since the initial surgery, but no additional nerve damage after the removal. As long as your doc knows what he’s doing it should be fine
I had 3 pins in my hip taken out from when I broke it because it was causing pressure when I walked for my job, the Dr. said there was a lot of bone growth causing the pressure so 2 years later out came the screws, I have a lot of screws and a plate in my elbow but it's not bothering me. I'm a strong believer in "if it's not broke, don't fix it".
Great topic! I’ve had three lumbar fusions. During my third, my surgeon removed some of the hardware from the first two surgeries. I don’t know why, I had no problems. My fusions were always solid.
Shattered Olecranon, had the hardware removed (2 plates 12 screws) when I had contracture release surgery last year. The screws were poking through my skin and very painful. Even the night of the surgery I was much more comfortable.
I'm 2 yr, 2 mo postop for tri-mal ORIF in ankle. I'm 64, healthy, good weight, and very active "for someone my age". Getting the plate removed from the fibula to improve chronic discomfort and pain, and to improve ROM (stability) for gym, walking, hiking, mountain biking. Leaving one tibial plate and the distal tibial screws in. I have a plate in wrist for Colles fx and it never bothers me (7 yrs ago)
Years ago I fell and landed on my hands which popped/fractured one elbow. They put a lot little pins in it. When the surgeon showed me the X-ray I commented that the pins were going every which way. The surgeon became very defensive. It was just a comment. I didn’t mean to offend him! I’ve had no trouble with all those messy pins.
After 45 pedicle screws and rods to correct scoliosis curve (S curve) of over 50 degrees in both directions would my back hold together after the hardware is removed. It’s uncomfortable and no infection problems but its a lot of hardware. Is it no bueno to remove? The surgery was two 6 hour surgeries with posterior first then anterior a month later. Very challenging. Thanks for your two cents.
That's "don't poke a sleeping bear!"😋 I had a broken leg at 5 years old but that was in the dark ages before specific hardware was around. Plus it was 3 perfect breaks so it went back together very well! I have different metals in my jaws but it's actually a prosthesis and I really need it. Can't take it out unless they have something else to put in. Another great video, thanks for sharing!
I have wire holding my ribcage together. I had an aortic valve replacement using a porcine valve. The wire has shifted in areas causing a few bumps on the skin surface. They told me since it has been 6 years I could have the wire removed. Since there is a risk of infection, and I am older, I have decided to live with it.
Dislocated my ankle and had a trimal with a Weber-C, just got 4 screws out yesterday that were causing me a lot of trouble, two syndesmotic lag screws and the two on the inside malleolus … feels rough but hoping for more ROM when healed
@@TalkingWithDocs My ROM increased a lot, back to 10k steps with the dog a day. Gets pretty sore and stiff by end of day. Will likely need a joint replacement some day, hopefully many many years from now
Broke my collar bone and had hardware installed. Had it removed a year later because you could see the contours of the metal plate through my skin. Doc ended up leaving one screw in place because it was too difficult to remove.
Can you please comment on the news coming out this month (Dec 2023) about titanium hip replacement hardware failing. Some parts are breaking apart inside the body a few years after being installed. This news is coming from mainstream US news sources. What should we look out for if considering hip replacement? Are certain materials or manufacturers safer than others?
I have hardware in my left hip after a fracture 4 years ago and I can feel it if I lay on that side. I used to be a side sleeper on that side but I've had to change. Two different doctors have advised me to leave the hardware alone unless it really starts bothering me. Some arthritis is developing in that hip now so it may turn into a hip replacement at some point.
I have 3 Lumbar levels fused. L3-S1 Rods and pedicle screws. Protocol in the US seems to be leave it in. Interestingly in other countries like Japan, it's more common to remove spinal hardware once fused. Great talk Docs!
Had hardware removed from three level fusion last year.(USA) Was 20 years old (the hardware) and it was removed at same time getting levels above fused. I was SO stupid not to ask the Dr why he wanted to remove the old hardware, as I had no problems and the fusion was solid. Was concentrated on relieving pain where new fusion was going to be done. Ended up in a horror story! Lots of blood loss and the new fusion attempt failed big time. Add a month long hospital stay due to nasty infection at hardware removal incision. Lesson, learned IF IT AINT BROKE DONT FIX IT! Best of luck.
@@blahblahblah6499 I fortunately have no issues with my hardware as well, only making a point how different countries view it differently. That's a horrible story and wishing you the best in your recovery. As a neurosurgeon recently told me "we don't call it back surgery for nothing, once your'e fused- you'll be back for more"
I have nine rods and a lower back fusion, great for fifteen years now I have back pain hip pain and a problem SI joint I 5:58 feel the rods in my back and the lower rod has come detached from the bone. Dr says it should be no problem , I’m not sure because I’m having pain
I shattered my ankle 9.11.22 and I recently got the hardware taken out I believe with my all the drs made my injury worse they didn’t fix anything it was a really bad injury.. I think shattering is worse then breaking I just wished they would have listened to me.. I had to go to a specialist I did have surgery this past Tuesday 5.21.24 to get done hardware removed that was causing 24/7 pain so I’m really trying to stay positive and hoping for the best outcome but those drs really screwed me up mentally as well.. thank you for this video.. very helpful 🙏
Following a bone graft in ankle I spend 12 weeks immobile. Once plaster off and started walking the screws popped out and near through skin. Had removal
In 1998 I had L4/L5 fused. In 2021 I had a laminectomy and the surgeon said he removed the screws while he was in there since they were no longer needed.
I had a plate and 7 screws removed from my foot because part of it was impinging on a nerve causing constant pain. My ladder had decided to slide off the roof while I was on it. I landed on my feet and crushed my calcaneus (heel bone). Hardware remains in my left wrist. It is pain free, and I feel like it makes my arm stronger. That was a comparatively boring slip on ice. Thank you for your explanations!
I had L4 - L5 fusion surgery 4 years ago so screws and rods in my spine. My surgeon told me bone and tissue would form around the hardware and ultimately become one with the spine. wouldn't ever consider removal of this hardware. Also have 2 total knee replacement surgeries. That hardware will outlive me.
Thank you for covering this topic. Tibial nail in left leg after a compound fracture caused by rock thrown out of a mower. Absolutely shattered the bone. Fully healed but still get slight twinges at fracture site and anchor points in ankle when I try to jog or twist my leg. Nothing serious and I don't need to do much jogging at 77 years of age. Accident happened 12 years ago. Australian health system ensured I paid nothing for treatment.
I had 2 separate surgeries to implant screws in my broken navicular, both times they were rejected. I was worried about my knee replacements, but so far they're holding (left for 6 years, right 18 months). Never got a good reason for the screws coming out.
motorcycle accident >20 years ago, 65 now and no real problem. At the time surgeon said it would last maybe a year then I'd need a new knee, I am concerned about the need for a new knee and what that would involve.
I have rods, screws, cadaver bone & a partial cage for a broken lumbar spine. Surgery had to be stopped when an accidental nick occurred on my dura so the cage build was never completed.
I fractured my hip in a nasty bike fall back in February 2011 - so almost 13 years ago. I was 62 at the time. A hip compression screw was used which is a 2-part fixture consisting of a plate with screws down the femur and a large screw that goes through the end of the plate and tightens into the ball of the hip. I did ask the surgeon about removal and he discouraged it. All has been OK except I've never quite got back to normal - I can do pretty much anything on the leg but I cannot run without pain.
Can LIV (low intensity vibration) using a machine such as a Marydyne have a detrimental effect on your surgical hardware by moving or loosening of bolt, brace pins? I had a femur fracture repaired 6 months ago with a good outcome. I am in the osteoporotic range for Dexa scan and have read positive reports re. LIV but am concerned whether my hardware will bear up to the vibration.
57 yr female here. Had lunch in one hand, drink in the other, missed sitting in the chair and when falling I heard a loud crack. Was home alone but thank GOD I had a teaching video on because I always leave my phone where I'm not. 13 screws and 3 plates later.... I'm 5 1/2 weeks out and have 6 more to go before I can get film to see if I can put weight on it. This changed my life. But now I know why, I was getting ready for a large convention to be a vendor and now I cannot be. Without knowing my mother needs me, because she had recently been diagnosed with LBD and scammed out of alot of money. But because I had this broken ankle I was able to be home with her and see behavior that was not normal and catch it before they drained all of her money. I wish I didn't have to lead to this happening, but because of it I can protect my mother now. 🙏
PS. My shin s are not thick. My swelling went away immediately because I live on ice regularly because of chronic pain. I was wondering if I have nails that show without being red I can just feel it and see them raised through my shin should I get that taken out, in your opinion? I will take it up with my doctor I was just curious for the purposes of watching this video what would you say to me as a patient? No it does not bother me but I'm sure if I did scrape my leg at all they might show through
Hi guys. My son‘s dog ran into me at a high rate of speed and gave me a tibia plateau fracture. I had the hardware put in and then two years later my doctor asked me if I would like it out. My leg was feeling kind of stiff, so I said yes. I just hated the thought of screws and plates in my leg. When I first saw my x-ray after surgery, I cried. I was not prepared to see my leg like that. Thanks for this video.
At age 14, tin/fib break. Plate on fibula, rod in tibia. At age 29, had plate removed because it started causing some pain while driving. Doctor was also going to remove the tibia rod, but it wouldn't budge. Age 36, left knee patella femural replacement and a plate for a distal femoral osteotomy. Just 2 days ago had another patella femural replacement in my other knee.
Thank-you for all you do and very much appreciated. I am 67 years old and had a motorcycle accident 11/2 years ago which resulted breaking my right foot that required 5 pins. One pin however has broken. My swelling has come down although there is considerable soreness particularly where the pins are on the top of my foot. Managing to walk max 5 kms but swelling occurs. My concern is to be pain free.
Many years ago, I had a complete right knee replacement. I believe I have cobalt chrome/ titanium as my replacement. My injury happened at work after repetitive work with heavy textbooks and media equipment at local high schools. The operation was SO painful to recover from, but I got through it. Now…many years later my knee is still sore but I’m not in horrible pain anymore. QUESTION: My orthopedic surgeon said that I must take amoxicillin (4 tablets 1 hour prior) prior to dentistry…which I am happy to do. When I went to my new dentist, they said it is not required anymore, but if I still wanted to do it, they would send a RX to my pharmacy. All,I know is, is that my doctor (he did Tiger Woods surgery in that rollover car accident many years ago) said that for the rest of my life, I need to take amoxicillin prior to any dentistry etc. What is your view on this? QUESTION: Does cobalt “corrode” inside the body after time and can it “poison” one’s body? I saw something on that on You Tube. I’m not really TOO concerned. I’m an old fart and don’t plan on having any more knee surgery. My replacement is supposed to last 30 years. I most likely will be dust when I need another. *Thank you for reading this long comment. 😊
Always get antibiotics, my dentist said the same thing and I had knee surgery which ended with me having infection in my knee. I almost died! The orthopedic doctors said you should have antibiotics the rest of your life before any surgery.
I had a fracture of my Tib and Fib close to 50 years ago while skiing which required 3 or 4 screws. I lost a lot of mobility in that leg due to little or no Physio during rehab. The loss of mobility I can live with however I still have a lot of swelling (Edema) after any activity. My question is, would removal of the remaining screws solve the Edema issue? I have to be very careful not to purchase socks what are tight around the top as the swelling is worse. Keep up the great work and love your site.
I had 5 surgeries on one foot last year due to arthritis. One of 3 fusions failed. Since it failed, I broke a plate and screw. When they went in 11 months later to re-fuse it, they took out all hardware, which was 14 screws and 2 plates. Now I only have 2 compression staples in. Hopefully, NO more surgery😊
What a great channel guys ! Hello from Scotland :-) In 2003 I broke my hip in an accident ( aged 36 ) and had a dynamic hip screw fitted. Fingers crossed a successful implant after 20 years with very very occasional muscular-type pain usually due to activity. This year ( on Halloween ! ) I had heart surgery to have a mechanical mitral valve fitted ( after endocarditis infection ). Your comment about infection was interesting as I never considered that for my DHS. I am now on warfarin for the valve, but after 7 weeks of pre-surgery IV antibiotics and 6 weeks of post-surgery IV and oral antibiotics I do hope the risk of infection is minimal. All I can recommend personally is keep your teeth and gums healthy ( as that is where the streptococcus bacteria came from ) A video with a dentist would be very welcome. I am a bit concerned about antibiotic resistance which would be another great topic please !
Dec 7 1994 I had an industrial accident. Right arm/hand. Compound wrist fracture/ multiple fractures below the elbow. 3 plates and 19 screws. At 57yrs old, my arm/wrist cause a lot of pain. I'm in construction and it causes me to miss work. Does the hardware "work loose" over time? Sometimes the pain is pretty intense. I've had it xray'd and the films don't show any "breaks".
At 61 yrs old my husband fractured his left femur skiing and had a plate and screws inserted to heal his femur. After he recovered the screws really irritated his knee and he complained about the pain but they couldn't be removed. Fast forward to his unrelated death at 65, he was cremated and those screws survived! I had a good laugh when I found them. It was like he was laughing, too.
...... 😨
I am 74 and never broke anything. Had a hip replacement 5 yrs ago because of arthritic, so hopefully, I will be dead before that might need to be replaced! Love you guys! You are just too funny!
That's awesome. Thanks so much and yes we are hoping for 25+ years out of these implants
Yes, but we haven't seen them when they get the feel of that cold hard steel between their fingers... (demonic laugh)
Maybe at 95 😂
@@TalkingWithDocs Can vitamin B9(folate/L-5-MTHF), B3, B12, ZINC, vit A, vit C, vit D, Quercetin Which of these supplements be taken in conditions like too much urination and UTI?
My surgery was for perforated disk and disk deteriorated vertebrae it got infected and they had to go in a take the hardware out. Now after that I have. Ern excruciating pain in my right side and leg which I never had before but they all look at me like it in my head. My first surgery was good except for the infection I would have been fine. Damage to right hip and now severe electrical current from my thigh to my knee. Please help
I had Tibia Nail removed after 25 years of being in place in order to have a full knee replacement. My surgeon told me that they can't always remove them after such a long time of being in place. Fortunately mine did come out, but not easily! One year later I had my knee replacement and now 2 years later I am living pain free. Thank you to all the wonderful surgeons out there who can make a difference in someone's life.
That is awesome
@@TalkingWithDocs Can vitamin B9(folate/L-5-MTHF), B3, B12, ZINC, vit A, vit C, vit D, Quercetin Which of these supplements be taken in conditions like too much urination and UTI?
I broke my lower right leg's tibia and fibula while running a track meet as collegiate athlete, due to an unbeknownst stress fracture. Had surgery to repair the facture with a titanium plate and screw along with a bone graft from my right hip, to put around the fracture to promote healing. Now, some 28yrs later, the hardware is still in my leg and I've had no ill effects. Coupled with the bone has calcified around the hardware, so basically I now have a SUPER STRONG LEG!! 🙂
Just simply miraculous that I have had ‘parts’ replaced and ‘parts’ screwed back together. We may take this for granted over time. I wish these miracles existed for my parents while they were alive. So much pain, suffering and misery could have been avoided.
Agree.
@danielfallon3363 •I would not be here without it I have spinal pelvic fixation due to big accident I had far far more pain before the K Wires they removed.I did not know they where in I was in huge huge pain that I can't describe-I was praying for a mallet to fall on my head ..Put me out of my Misery .Mine worked I can walk I am disabled but the pain was gone day 3 after waiting 13 days for the operation..So I guess times change also Titanium is as strong as me ..
Great topic. I have 2 screws my spine from an L4/5 fusion that was done 8 years ago. After the surgery, I asked the neurosurgeon if the screws would come out at a later date. He stated that if I weighed 100 pounds he would take them out because they are close to the surface. But, with me he would not think about removing them because I have enough muscle/fat for a cushion that they should not bother. He also said he would remove them if they irritated me or if I got an infection. So far, so good.
Keep up the great work Docs!
@davideaenest4178 mine is a spinal pelvic fixation due to 4 Transverse Process Fracture and a Jumpers Fracture of my Pelvis they detached themselves in an accident I think people forget the pain they where in before the accident I was screaming or out of no use of my bladder or bowel -It's no easy task getting all that in there minus someone very ill dying I have an issue where they could not do anything to my left smashed to smithereens(Crushed Calcaneum )😢 But it's being sorted with Orthotic Boots personally I am very grateful to be alive times change it's nearly 10 years since my accident .Next June .I am starting 1/1 physio as I had a TBI the year afterwards my ringtone is "I am titanium "
I have a one-year-old titanium hip. I’m a 75-year-old mostly sedentary female. Sometimes I am aware of the stem going down into my leg. It’s achy, not really painful. But I will deal with it, not wanting to go through hip surgery again (it was for arthritis). I told my surgeon and he said we’ll “watch it.”
Thank you for covering this topic. I have plates and screws in my ankle and have always wondered about this.
You guys are a favorite channel and always give great information. Love the format
Are you going to remove the hardware ?
Hi docs~ You are always so informative and helpful. Thank you. I dislocated and broke my left ankle on both sides in 2006. The orthopedic surgeon put a plate and screws on one side and screws on the inside. I did intensive physio and at age 74, am still good! I asked the surgeon about six months after the surgery if the plate and screws would be removed. He asked if they were bothering me. No. I only do surgery if I think it will improve something, was his answer. They are still in there! And I am grateful. cheers
I love y’all’s channel! I got a plate and 10 screws in my left elbow after I was hit by a car while riding my bicycle. Although it’s in a very superficial place and I feel it all the time I would not want to have another surgery to get it removed.
@sicgirl224 I have the same injury but from a slip and fall. How was your recovery? Did you get your full ROM back?
I had both pins removed from broken hips. They were uncomfortable, and after a year, each of the hips had completely healed. First hip fracture at age 30, the second at age 45. I am small boned with a history of fractures, but at age 71, I am doing fine.
January 11th I went in for left knee replacement. Surgery went fine. That afternoon I was going to stand up with 2 people helping. As soon as I stood, I felt a horrible pain in my left leg. Got back into bed and X-ray came in. I didn’t know what was happening. I had broken my left femur. January 13 had surgery to put the femur back together with a plate and screws. I had to go to rehab, nursing home, and back to rehab. Wasn’t allowed to stand for 10 weeks. Finally got home mid April. During rehab/pt my back was giving me a lot of pain. No one checked my back until I begged to have X-rays. Two vertebrae had crumbled and several need to be rebuilt. I’m 73 and had not had a DEXA since I was 50. Had that and found I have osteoporosis and am high fracture risk. Please encourage people 65 and older to get a scan. Thank you…
Same here! I agree! Ladies, of ANY age, get a scan before any ortho surgery! Demand it. Had lumbar fusion at three levels. Completely failed. Second opinion Dr found Osteoporosis I never knew I had, Screws, rods have all failed and I am way worse off than before. Dr said "it is like trying to put a screw into styrofoam".
If a Dr wants or needs to do ANY ortho surgery, and does not send you for a Dexa scan, there is your red flag flying high! Run, do not walk away from that Dr! Be your own advocate! I don't care if you have to pay for it yourself. You must know!
@@GiveThanksAndPraise Thank you so much for your concern and comment. I will definitely check out resistance training. Blessings…
Good grief. Would the authorities not check for bone health and density before any operations, etc.? So sorry to hear about all your pain and anxiety.
@@ClareHarrison-qi3bw I asked that question. The answer was the primary care doctor is responsible for letting them know if there’s an issue with bone density. My doctor overlooked my needing a scan and I didn’t realize I should ask for one. What I didn’t mention is I’m having to do daily injections with a med that costs me $668 for 28 day dose! That’s my cost after insurance. I’m trying to get help from the pharmaceutical company since I have to take it for a year.
What a nightmare. Good luck with all your endeavours. Medical negligence? Keep pushing for what you need. Best wishes.@@kayslowey-sly2138
I have screws in my right femur head and had my left hip replaced, plus I have two long sacral screws, all from a pedestrian vs car accident 2 years ago. Sitting for longer periods bothers my sacral screws, but I’m happy to be put back together!
Hope you are doing ok
@@TalkingWithDocs I truly am. I’m a walking miracle!
I’ve had five screws in my left ankle from a broken talus bone, from a mountain bike accident, for the last thirty years. So far so good, now I’m 59 and jump rope as part of my exercise routine. Doctors at UCLA did a good job. I’ll never forget all the stainless steel tools they had arranged on a table. There were chisels, hammers, screwdrivers etc. I jokingly asked if someone was going to put up some cabinets. The doctor laughed and said it was a lot like wood working. Then they put me under.
Nothing like a doc who aspires to be a stand-up comedian.
Aka Steve Carell, I would not want to see these things. Put me 'under' well before going to the room of doom.
Sorry I can’t get it .. did you remove the screws ?
I had major foot surgery 3 years ago. Bunion and had my second toe shortened. I am now experiencing a lot of pain in the big toe. My surgeon said that sometimes they need to remove the hardware but I have been avoiding making that call because it took over a year to fully heal from that procedure. So I’m going to call now.
Thank you!
One more reason to take out hardware. A screw I had in my foot that I had since the early 70's had to come out because I needed an MRI on that foot. It was metal that was not friendly with the MRI machine. I now have 5 screws in the foot, all because of post-traumatic osteo-arthritis. I'm having a rt knee replacement in 24. My right knee and foot will be bionic. It will be great to have better mobility. I'm 77 and love your channel.
I have 8 pins in my left wrist from a crushed wrist. I have never had any problems with it and don't plan to get them taken out. Thanks for all the info you provide. I watch all your videos.
Just had the hardware removed 3 weeks ago. Was hurting it was in my thumb to get rid of my arthritis. So far so good!
Yes the thumb can hurt for sure
so Robert will they put new hardware in?
@@gosman949 no bone took all good
@@TalkingWithDocs Can vitamin B9(folate/L-5-MTHF), B3, B12, ZINC, vit A, vit C, vit D, Quercetin Which of these supplements be taken in conditions like too much urination and UTI?
Hi docs & thank you. I am 74 & had spinal fusion surgery when I was 62. I was told that w/o it, I would end up living in a wheelchair. I had been suffering with pain related scoliosis. Since then, I have been in constant pain & have been unable to find a doctor who will see me. I now live with 2 rods & 20 screws!
I feel your pain in a different way. Although I have orthopedic hardware in a few places with almost no issue.
I had a lot hernia mesh put in my abdomen that has been constant issue since installed in 2012. I can't get a surgeon to do anything about it despite constant MRSA infections in it. Hell, my local ER won't even treat me, they force me to go back to VCU where it was put in just for antibiotics, and that is a 2+ hour drive away.
I wish you the best of luck finding someone to give you some relief.
Thank you for reassurance on the bolts in my foot. The foot is larger than its mate so finding sensible shoes can be hard. I still do prescribed exercises and dodge the arthritis. Thankful for the healers and helpers who gave back my life!😊
I have a plate and several screws in my right ankle; the result of a slip and fall on ice back in 2015. So far, so good. Not experiencing any complications.
I did the same thing in 2021. Ice in April was unexpected
I slipped on ice, broke my fibula, separated ankle joint, tore out ligaments. One year after surgery, I had all screws and plate removed because the screws were sticking out under the skin of my ankle bone. I couldn’t wear footwear for that year because the screws rubbed against the shoe. I can walk pain free now. I was very happy to have the hardware removed. With spinal anesthetic the removal surgery was easy, and only 14 minutes. It was so worthwhile.
Hey docs, great info and fun delivery :)
18 years ago I had a shattered L clavicle and had ORIF. after 2 years I had it removed due to some discomfort. Results were fantastic all around!
Fast-forward to 2020, I broke my R clavicle (shatter again) and R hip for good measure :| Had ORIF plate and screws to patch things up while my body healed itself. At exactly the 3 year mark (covid pooched my surgery at the 2 yrs mark), I had all the hardware removed :) Best thing I ever did! The limp and discomfort from my hip hardware (groin alignment plate and outer plate/anker) is not a thing of the past!
I was very fortunate that all 4 incisions healed super nicely like I am20 (I'm 52), great sutures (by request, no staples please) skills. Feeling around all incisions is almost 100%. I'm at 9 weeks from hardware removal and back to 100% activities.
For a speedy recovery, I did acupuncture (swelling and healing), physio (mobility), chiropractor (posture and alignment), massage (muscle relaxation), osteopath (mobility and release tension), myofascial release (range of motion and release tension), Dolphin Neurostim MPS (scar release), Micro Pulse PEMF (rapid bone healing and circulation), ultrasound, cupping, Gua Sha as well as all of IF/EMS/MIC/TENS/NMES (would love to hear the docs take on pros/cons/applications of electro-therapy). I started seeing practitioners within first week leading with acupuncture, and all stims within 7-10 days, leading with PEMF on surgery day.
I've had a good few bumps, bruises and fractures as I do enduro dirt bike riding in Summer and dirt bike snowbiking in Winter. My body's ability to heal is very well exercised ;)
I hope this helps someone and sparks great conversations!
Before I finished the first paragraph I thought this has to be a cyclist
Well I have a plate with 2 screws in my right wrist I broke in a fall, I have an artificial knee in my left knee,and I have screws in my neck from a cervical procedure and I am 76 years old and enjoy all your videos always bring a smile to my face.
I have some metal in my ankle. I broke it in such a way that surgery was necessary for it to heal properly. Thank you for these videos! A lot of the information is really helpful.
I'm 75 years old, had cages put in as spacers in the vertebrae L5-S1 area, during fusion, the cages shifted and are pressing on nerves, and cause a lot of pain. Should and/or can they be removed and if removed what will happen.
I have screws and rods from T6 all the way down, from disc wear. Big surgery 7 hours two surgeons. Has been fourteen months since the surgery. The topic of removal has never been discussed. I suspect the removal may be potentially damaging.
The spine stuff is pretty tricky to remove. Best to keep it 😀
@@TalkingWithDocsI’m scared, because I’m experiencing a lot of chronic pain, some of which could be related to my implants along my thoracic. I’m investigating things with my PCP like EDS for other pain, but removal is being discussed as an option with my surgeon. But it sounds like there’s a risk of it not improving, or getting worse afterwards. It’s hard to find people talking about their post-op experience in the long term, but I wonder if any studies have been done on it?
I fractured my tib/fib while running at the beach (a large dog ran into me). I had a plate laterally and large screws medically. The two screws were very uncomfortable so at 1 year the surgeon took them about and I felt SO much better. Later during a knee arthroscopy he took out the plates. I’m much more comfortable with it all out and glad that I had them removed.
Doc's,
Back in 2006 I had the pleasure of hosting a Colles fracture on my left wrist. Have been fairly active on my rowing machine ever since and my pins and plate have never, ever bothered me. Really appreciate orthopedic surgeons and your the videos!
In July 204 I slipped off a curb and broke my shoulder, humerus bone in my arm and also 3 bones in my ankle. It has been 5 months and the arm is getting better , when I wake up it is sore. the ankle is another story. Where the plate and screw is, still painfully to walk. it feels like a tight band across the crease on my foot and where the plate is hurts to walk and feels like it is burning all the time. I tried to grocery shop today and half way through my foot hurt enough that I was afraid I would fall again because of the pain. it has been 5 months and the doctor said it should have been better in 6-8 weeks. I can’t stand long enough to cook in the kitchen it hurts. I have done everything right , pt daily, ice, elevate, brace.
I know exactly the pain you are describing... hang in there❤
Have a titanium plate and screws on my clavicle from a break incurred from a snowboarding crash. It's been there almost 2 years, and has been problem free.
Got new hardware installed yesterday, with a right total knee replacement.
I had multi level cervical surgery and have titanium cage which is screwed into the vertebrae which was used to fuse the neck.
That's not coming out
Have a screw in ankle after dislocated and broke, no issue after 30 years. Have new hip two weeks ago, anterior approach and walking on own already without cane.
I had a trimalleolar break a year ago, and a plate and screws were inserted. Although I have healed well, I am in constant pain. I have just made an appointment to meet the surgeon and discuss removal of the metal hardware.
Coming here a couple weeks before my screws come out of my ankle and plate out of the leg…so excited!
I had L4-S1 fusion hardware removed back in 2007 but the surgeon was already going to be in there doing work above the fusion at L3-L4. He asked be before the surgery if I wanted it out and I told him to go ahead and remove it.
I actually have those rods and screws (cleaned, of course) in a sealed plastic bag.
Beyond that, I have two hip replacements and two knee replacements in there right now. The right knee has worn out and is in need of a revision. Oh...I'm 50 and had my first knee replacement at 35.
I asked my surgeon for some of my hardware that he was going to remove during my third lumbar fusion. He said he had to “return it to the manufacturer for stress testing”.
You are technically bionic at this point
I took of the top of my tibia in 2006, well down into the bone, and had a L-shaped plate, with seven screws, installed to hold everything together. All was fine while I was wearing the brace but when I was able to sleep without it, it became evident that one of the screws was sticking out through the bone and poking into the muscle next to it. I waited six months for additional healing and had everything removed. No problems since. (The surgeon gave me the hardware and it's impressive.)
I had a workplace injury of a shattered kneecap . The surgeon picked out the bone fragments and kept it together with a wire . I had to have a second operation after three weeks because the wire popped loose which meant at the time another 3 days in the hospital under heavy sedation . I should have had another operation to take the wire out or trim . Now 9 years later I have much grinding and pain . Now I more than likely will have to have a knee replacement . Patients need to go back for evaluations . I was asked one time by the doctor , still in his scrubs if I would like to have it taken out while I was still working . I asked him if it would help he said he did not know . I would have had to take off a large amount of time again from work . I must have been his first shattered kneecap . Your posts are great .
I have 3 pins for slipped epiphesis when I was 12. Biggest mistake was to have them removed 5 years later. They had calcified in and femur was cracked upon removal attempt. Slipped and fell amonth later and broke femur. After another round in a body cast left leg is half an inch shorter, now have so many issues from 50 years later.
How old are you now?
Just had my hardware removed Aug. 30th in my Rh ankle. Initial injury was Feb. 2021. I broke both my ankles after a small stool “kicked out” from under me and forced both my feet into the cement. I broke my Tib / Fib & Talus on my Lh (and also tore my Perineal tendon 7cm). And had Tri mailular fracture w/widening of the ankle mortise on my Rh.
Spent 9 days in the hospital. Had one surgery on my Rh foot, which entailed 2 plates with 17 screws. Total non weight bearing for 11 weeks. Then countless hours of PT.
Second surgery to repair the Perineal tendon in Sept. 2021, which again put me non weight bearing on the Lh side.
Arthritis has totally dominated my Rh foot & the hardware was extremely uncomfortable. FINALLY had it all removed August 30, 2023. It feels so much better ☺️.
Still looking at a total joint replacement, but I am being told (especially due to my young age 54) to put it off as long as possible. We are just trying to keep the arthritis at bay, or at least manageable. (I really don’t want to take it due to the kidney implications, but I do. Otherwise, I would not have much quality of life….sadly
Ohhh, ouch. I am an RN and was squirming at your story. I pray you are healing well.
Broke my right ankle in three places in June. Plates and screws on both sides. Had to have one screw removed but the rest will hopefully be able to stay in for life with no complications. All good so far.
Nice. Continued luck with your recovery
So you had a screw loose? Glad they fixed it.
My mother had the hardware in her ankle removed 20 years after placement due to infection. It was a long post op recovery involving iv antibiotics, non-weightbearing, and skin grafting.
Yes it can be tough
I was involved in a car accident. Broke my wrist needed a plate 5:57 worked out perfect. Love you d
I had a knee replacement 2 yrs ago and it's been great. Thanks for the info!
That's great
I have plate & screws in my tibia from a compound fracture leaving my leg at least 1" longer. You can feel the screws easily & I have pain on my shin when walking with swelling of the lower leg if I walk too much. definitely effecting my activity level! I had a TKR 2 yrs following on the same leg & the Dr. would not remove the plate. Now I have been told that there is a risk of infection & they won't remove it. Thank you for your videos! Nice to have Dr.s from Canada!🇨🇦
I had two planned jaw surgeries due to extreme over jet. The first one was lower jaw (6 pins/screws) and a genioplasty (plate and screws), then the second surgery was upper jaw surgery (four plates with many pins).
Neither the plate in my wrist, nor the two plates and the mass of screws in my right ankle have caused me the slightest problem since they were put in to fix bones broken in falls. Big shout out to both surgeons - thank you thank you thank you. Both joints work wonderfully well and I know how much those surgeons' skill has added to the quality of my life. I hiked Hadrian's Wall this summer and while blisters were a problem the ankle wasn't in the slightest.
I had wrist orif, so painful, no movement, terrible, had it removed, pain reduced immediately, rom improved by a small amount, devastated, very fit and active person. Still have small amounts of pain 2 years after.
I tore my alnar away from the triangular fibrocartilage complex. Had the Alnar shortened and reattached. They placed metal work along side of the alnar to allow it to fuse correctly. Then I had constant pain on twisting my forearm. I was speaking to my GP at time stating this hurts when I twist my forearm. He then stated "What's this" pointing to a lump on my forearmed he touched it and the lump disappeared it was the screws coming out. Then I had to have all the metalwork removed.
Broke my fibula when I ran out of talent riding a 600lb adventure motorcycle with street tires in the ID mud. Wound up with plate and screws. Was walking on it again in about 7 weeks, thanks to our talented local ortho trauma surgeon.
I broke my right ankle a year ago and yes, it is and discomfort and I am thinking of asking them to remove it
Had jaw plates removed today after a year. They were irritating but the surgeon said the irritation may be coming from the scarring. It’s been like a piece of wood between my gums and lip. I’m currently swollen and sore and am eager to see if there will be any difference. I’m glad the metal is out though.
Fingers crossed
Hey! Thank you so much for this video! I have been on the fence on whether to take out my hardware or not. In 2017 I jumped off of a cliff into water (not the brightest idea but I was a thrill seeker). In doing so, I landed more slanted on my chest and with the impact of the water, ended up fracturing my sternum.
I was rushed to the ER and eventually had a sternum plate with screws put into my sternum. 7 years later my bone has healed and my quality of life is fine. I only occasionally, when over extending my arms, lifting heavy objects in a certain angle, stretching in a certain way, bending over in a certain angle, laying on my chest or side, etc, feel pain in the area where my plate was screwed into my chest. This is not every time^^ but is noticeable maybe once/ twice a week or every other week. It almost feels like a rubbing or slight grinding. The pain lasts 1sec- 3 sec. Sometimes I have a pinching feeling and I have to move my body and arms in a way to “pull it back in place” or to get rid of the uncomfortable feeling.
I have had everyone and their mother, including surgeons, saying that it might not be worth it to take it out. But I am unsure. I feel like I need an another opinion. If you guys have time I would love to hear your thoughts on my situation. I appreciate you guys and your video so much. Have an amazing day! 🙏
I had a plate and 6 screws after crushing my radial head (was bucked off my horse and landed right on the elbow!) ….had to have it removed 9 months later as I actually bent it! It’s been my keychain now for the past 15 years!
Wrist fracture about 15 years ago left me with a cool little dagger shaped plate holding it together. No intention of removing at this point. It left a prominent and visible bump on the underside of the wrist that only bothers me when I bump it on something. On the upside it is fun to show people. It creeps out some and fascinates others.
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
I will be 26 in a few months and I also have a plate and screws in my ankle. They cause me so much discomfort and pain. A lot of older folk tell me to keep it but as a young person I do not want this stuff in my body forever and potentially getting infected. Thank you for sharing!
@ no problem luv. I was also in pain and discomfort but I just felt like I wanted my ankle to feel as close as possible to the way it was pre injury. I did physio and strength training but the hardware makes so much difference. My mom being a nurse she tried to talk me out of having it removed. Just trust your gut
@ did you have more nerve damage after the removal? That’s the only thing I am worried about. I hate how my foot sometimes feels like sandpaper but I would rather deal with that than have restrictions from the hardware!
@ yeah I know what you mean. I have a spot on top of my foot that I can barely feel since the initial surgery, but no additional nerve damage after the removal. As long as your doc knows what he’s doing it should be fine
I had 3 pins in my hip taken out from when I broke it because it was causing pressure when I walked for my job, the Dr. said there was a lot of bone growth causing the pressure so 2 years later out came the screws, I have a lot of screws and a plate in my elbow but it's not bothering me. I'm a strong believer in "if it's not broke, don't fix it".
How long was your recovery post removal surgery?
@@valariebozarth 6 weeks
Great topic! I’ve had three lumbar fusions. During my third, my surgeon removed some of the hardware from the first two surgeries. I don’t know why, I had no problems. My fusions were always solid.
Shattered Olecranon, had the hardware removed (2 plates 12 screws) when I had contracture release surgery last year. The screws were poking through my skin and very painful. Even the night of the surgery I was much more comfortable.
I'm 2 yr, 2 mo postop for tri-mal ORIF in ankle. I'm 64, healthy, good weight, and very active "for someone my age". Getting the plate removed from the fibula to improve chronic discomfort and pain, and to improve ROM (stability) for gym, walking, hiking, mountain biking. Leaving one tibial plate and the distal tibial screws in. I have a plate in wrist for Colles fx and it never bothers me (7 yrs ago)
Years ago I fell and landed on my hands which popped/fractured one elbow. They put a lot little pins in it. When the surgeon showed me the X-ray I commented that the pins were going every which way. The surgeon became very defensive. It was just a comment. I didn’t mean to offend him! I’ve had no trouble with all those messy pins.
Don't even worry about it. No need for him or her to get defensive. Glad you are ok
After 45 pedicle screws and rods to correct scoliosis curve (S curve) of over 50 degrees in both directions would my back hold together after the hardware is removed. It’s uncomfortable and no infection problems but its a lot of hardware. Is it no bueno to remove? The surgery was two 6 hour surgeries with posterior first then anterior a month later. Very challenging. Thanks for your two cents.
You guys are awesome! I have Titanium spring insert in my Fallopian tube, 20 year ago, I do regret that choice!🤔
That's "don't poke a sleeping bear!"😋
I had a broken leg at 5 years old but that was in the dark ages before specific hardware was around. Plus it was 3 perfect breaks so it went back together very well!
I have different metals in my jaws but it's actually a prosthesis and I really need it. Can't take it out unless they have something else to put in.
Another great video, thanks for sharing!
I have wire holding my ribcage together. I had an aortic valve replacement using a porcine valve. The wire has shifted in areas causing a few bumps on the skin surface. They told me since it has been 6 years I could have the wire removed. Since there is a risk of infection, and I am older, I have decided to live with it.
Fair enough. As long as it doesn't break through the skin
I had a Maquet procedure in the mid 1990s and had the 2 screws removed under local anesthesia that did not fully numb the area.
Dislocated my ankle and had a trimal with a Weber-C, just got 4 screws out yesterday that were causing me a lot of trouble, two syndesmotic lag screws and the two on the inside malleolus … feels rough but hoping for more ROM when healed
Fingers crossed for you!
@@TalkingWithDocs My ROM increased a lot, back to 10k steps with the dog a day. Gets pretty sore and stiff by end of day. Will likely need a joint replacement some day, hopefully many many years from now
Broke my collar bone and had hardware installed. Had it removed a year later because you could see the contours of the metal plate through my skin. Doc ended up leaving one screw in place because it was too difficult to remove.
Yes this is a very superficial area for sure
Can you please comment on the news coming out this month (Dec 2023) about titanium hip replacement hardware failing. Some parts are breaking apart inside the body a few years after being installed. This news is coming from mainstream US news sources. What should we look out for if considering hip replacement? Are certain materials or manufacturers safer than others?
I have hardware in my left hip after a fracture 4 years ago and I can feel it if I lay on that side. I used to be a side sleeper on that side but I've had to change. Two different doctors have advised me to leave the hardware alone unless it really starts bothering me. Some arthritis is developing in that hip now so it may turn into a hip replacement at some point.
I have 3 Lumbar levels fused. L3-S1 Rods and pedicle screws. Protocol in the US seems to be leave it in. Interestingly in other countries like Japan, it's more common to remove spinal hardware once fused. Great talk Docs!
Had hardware removed from three level fusion last year.(USA) Was 20 years old (the hardware) and it was removed at same time getting levels above fused. I was SO stupid not to ask the Dr why he wanted to remove the old hardware, as I had no problems and the fusion was solid. Was concentrated on relieving pain where new fusion was going to be done. Ended up in a horror story! Lots of blood loss and the new fusion attempt failed big time. Add a month long hospital stay due to nasty infection at hardware removal incision. Lesson, learned IF IT AINT BROKE DONT FIX IT! Best of luck.
@@blahblahblah6499 I fortunately have no issues with my hardware as well, only making a point how different countries view it differently. That's a horrible story and wishing you the best in your recovery. As a neurosurgeon recently told me "we don't call it back surgery for nothing, once your'e fused- you'll be back for more"
I have 6 surgical steel clips from an old Gallbladder surgery. At one point they got wrapped around a bile duct and I then had pancreatitis.
I have nine rods and a lower back fusion, great for fifteen years now I have back pain hip pain and a problem SI joint I 5:58 feel the rods in my back and the lower rod has come detached from the bone. Dr says it should be no problem , I’m not sure because I’m having pain
I have stainless steel staples. Necessary leftovers from surgery. They are staying in. Thanks for covering this topic.
I shattered my ankle 9.11.22 and I recently got the hardware taken out I believe with my all the drs made my injury worse they didn’t fix anything it was a really bad injury.. I think shattering is worse then breaking I just wished they would have listened to me.. I had to go to a specialist I did have surgery this past Tuesday 5.21.24 to get done hardware removed that was causing 24/7 pain so I’m really trying to stay positive and hoping for the best outcome but those drs really screwed me up mentally as well.. thank you for this video.. very helpful 🙏
Glad you are feeling better
Following a bone graft in ankle I spend 12 weeks immobile. Once plaster off and started walking the screws popped out and near through skin. Had removal
In 1998 I had L4/L5 fused. In 2021 I had a laminectomy and the surgeon said he removed the screws while he was in there since they were no longer needed.
Thank you Doctors for another great video!
I had a plate and 7 screws removed from my foot because part of it was impinging on a nerve causing constant pain. My ladder had decided to slide off the roof while I was on it. I landed on my feet and crushed my calcaneus (heel bone).
Hardware remains in my left wrist. It is pain free, and I feel like it makes my arm stronger. That was a comparatively boring slip on ice.
Thank you for your explanations!
I had L4 - L5 fusion surgery 4 years ago so screws and rods in my spine. My surgeon told me bone and tissue would form around the hardware and ultimately become one with the spine. wouldn't ever consider removal of this hardware. Also have 2 total knee replacement surgeries. That hardware will outlive me.
Thank you for covering this topic. Tibial nail in left leg after a compound fracture caused by rock thrown out of a mower. Absolutely shattered the bone. Fully healed but still get slight twinges at fracture site and anchor points in ankle when I try to jog or twist my leg. Nothing serious and I don't need to do much jogging at 77 years of age. Accident happened 12 years ago. Australian health system ensured I paid nothing for treatment.
I had 2 separate surgeries to implant screws in my broken navicular, both times they were rejected. I was worried about my knee replacements, but so far they're holding (left for 6 years, right 18 months). Never got a good reason for the screws coming out.
Hard to say. This is more common in fracture care than joint replacement.
motorcycle accident >20 years ago, 65 now and no real problem. At the time surgeon said it would last maybe a year then I'd need a new knee, I am concerned about the need for a new knee and what that would involve.
I have rods, screws, cadaver bone & a partial cage for a broken lumbar spine. Surgery had to be stopped when an accidental nick occurred on my dura so the cage build was never completed.
Sorry to hear that. The dura is so think and at risk of tearing during those procedures. Hope things are ok
I fractured my hip in a nasty bike fall back in February 2011 - so almost 13 years ago. I was 62 at the time. A hip compression screw was used which is a 2-part fixture consisting of a plate with screws down the femur and a large screw that goes through the end of the plate and tightens into the ball of the hip. I did ask the surgeon about removal and he discouraged it. All has been OK except I've never quite got back to normal - I can do pretty much anything on the leg but I cannot run without pain.
Can LIV (low intensity vibration) using a machine such as a Marydyne have a detrimental effect on your surgical hardware by moving or loosening of bolt, brace pins? I had a femur fracture repaired 6 months ago with a good outcome. I am in the osteoporotic range for Dexa scan and have read positive reports re. LIV but am concerned whether my hardware will bear up to the vibration.
57 yr female here. Had lunch in one hand, drink in the other, missed sitting in the chair and when falling I heard a loud crack. Was home alone but thank GOD I had a teaching video on because I always leave my phone where I'm not. 13 screws and 3 plates later.... I'm 5 1/2 weeks out and have 6 more to go before I can get film to see if I can put weight on it. This changed my life. But now I know why, I was getting ready for a large convention to be a vendor and now I cannot be. Without knowing my mother needs me, because she had recently been diagnosed with LBD and scammed out of alot of money. But because I had this broken ankle I was able to be home with her and see behavior that was not normal and catch it before they drained all of her money. I wish I didn't have to lead to this happening, but because of it I can protect my mother now. 🙏
PS. My shin s are not thick. My swelling went away immediately because I live on ice regularly because of chronic pain. I was wondering if I have nails that show without being red I can just feel it and see them raised through my shin should I get that taken out, in your opinion? I will take it up with my doctor I was just curious for the purposes of watching this video what would you say to me as a patient? No it does not bother me but I'm sure if I did scrape my leg at all they might show through
Hi guys. My son‘s dog ran into me at a high rate of speed and gave me a tibia plateau fracture. I had the hardware put in and then two years later my doctor asked me if I would like it out. My leg was feeling kind of stiff, so I said yes. I just hated the thought of screws and plates in my leg. When I first saw my x-ray after surgery, I cried. I was not prepared to see my leg like that. Thanks for this video.
At age 14, tin/fib break. Plate on fibula, rod in tibia.
At age 29, had plate removed because it started causing some pain while driving. Doctor was also going to remove the tibia rod, but it wouldn't budge.
Age 36, left knee patella femural replacement and a plate for a distal femoral osteotomy.
Just 2 days ago had another patella femural replacement in my other knee.
Oh man. Lots of surgery
I broke my ankle when I fell on an icy patch. I have 5 screws and a plate that TSA sees every time I fly
Thank-you for all you do and very much appreciated. I am 67 years old and had a motorcycle accident 11/2 years ago which resulted breaking my right foot that required 5 pins. One pin however has broken. My swelling has come down although there is considerable soreness particularly where the pins are on the top of my foot. Managing to walk max 5 kms but swelling occurs. My concern is to be pain free.
Hardware in my elbow has been in 20 years. Full elbow reconstruction. Now it’s causing a major infection and made me septic in 2020.
Oh no!
@@TalkingWithDocs but they’re talking about removing it completely? Isn’t the elbow a tricky joint to remove hardware from?
I have a plate and screws in my femur because of a peri-prosthetic fracture the day after my TKA.
Many years ago, I had a complete right knee replacement. I believe I have cobalt chrome/ titanium as my replacement. My injury happened at work after repetitive work with heavy textbooks and media equipment at local high schools. The operation was SO painful to recover from, but I got through it. Now…many years later my knee is still sore but I’m not in horrible pain anymore. QUESTION: My orthopedic surgeon said that I must take amoxicillin (4 tablets 1 hour prior) prior to dentistry…which I am happy to do. When I went to my new dentist, they said it is not required anymore, but if I still wanted to do it, they would send a RX to my pharmacy. All,I know is, is that my doctor (he did Tiger Woods surgery in that rollover car accident many years ago) said that for the rest of my life, I need to take amoxicillin prior to any dentistry etc. What is your view on this? QUESTION: Does cobalt “corrode” inside the body after time and can it “poison” one’s body? I saw something on that on You Tube. I’m not really TOO concerned. I’m an old fart and don’t plan on having any more knee surgery. My replacement is supposed to last 30 years. I most likely will be dust when I need another. *Thank you for reading this long comment. 😊
Always get antibiotics, my dentist said the same thing and I had knee surgery which ended with me having infection in my knee. I almost died! The orthopedic doctors said you should have antibiotics the rest of your life before any surgery.
@@darlenericotta Thank you dear one! YES! I always plan on using antibiotics no matter what. I would rather err on doing too much than not enough. 💖
I have a titanium Lt.hand,Plate in my rt.ankle..2016 fx of lt.Trochantor . Total Bilateral hip replacements .None taken out .
Very nice
I had a fracture of my Tib and Fib close to 50 years ago while skiing which required 3 or 4 screws. I lost a lot of mobility in that leg due to little or no Physio during rehab. The loss of mobility I can live with however I still have a lot of swelling (Edema) after any activity. My question is, would removal of the remaining screws solve the Edema issue? I have to be very careful not to purchase socks what are tight around the top as the swelling is worse.
Keep up the great work and love your site.
I had 5 surgeries on one foot last year due to arthritis. One of 3 fusions failed. Since it failed, I broke a plate and screw. When they went in 11 months later to re-fuse it, they took out all hardware, which was 14 screws and 2 plates. Now I only have 2 compression staples in. Hopefully, NO more surgery😊
Thanks. I have plenty pins in right hip due to congenital dislocation .also something a tibia..
What a great channel guys ! Hello from Scotland :-) In 2003 I broke my hip in an accident ( aged 36 ) and had a dynamic hip screw fitted. Fingers crossed a successful implant after 20 years with very very occasional muscular-type pain usually due to activity. This year ( on Halloween ! ) I had heart surgery to have a mechanical mitral valve fitted ( after endocarditis infection ). Your comment about infection was interesting as I never considered that for my DHS. I am now on warfarin for the valve, but after 7 weeks of pre-surgery IV antibiotics and 6 weeks of post-surgery IV and oral antibiotics I do hope the risk of infection is minimal. All I can recommend personally is keep your teeth and gums healthy ( as that is where the streptococcus bacteria came from ) A video with a dentist would be very welcome. I am a bit concerned about antibiotic resistance which would be another great topic please !
Dec 7 1994 I had an industrial accident. Right arm/hand. Compound wrist fracture/ multiple fractures below the elbow. 3 plates and 19 screws. At 57yrs old, my arm/wrist cause a lot of pain. I'm in construction and it causes me to miss work. Does the hardware "work loose" over time? Sometimes the pain is pretty intense. I've had it xray'd and the films don't show any "breaks".