Metallic implant removal includes the extraction of screws, pins, or plates.
Leading manufacturer Synthes® states that metallic implants can loosen, fracture, corrode, migrate, cause pain, or stress shield bone even after a fracture has healed, particularly in young, active patients.
While the surgeon must make the final decision on the implant removal, we recommend that whenever possible and practical for the individual patient, fixation devises should be removed once their services as an aid to healing is accomplished.