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Observations on removal of metal implants
R H Richards1, J D Palmer, N M Clarke
1Department of Orthopaedics, Southampton General Hospital, UK.
Injury
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Routine removal of metal implants after bone fracture healing shows good outcomes. Asymptomatic implants can often be left in place, but symptomatic ones may require removal to prevent complications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Patient Outcomes Research
Background:
- Metal internal fixation devices are commonly used for fracture repair.
- Implant removal is a common surgical procedure, but indications and outcomes require further study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of routine metal implant removal surgery.
- To assess the correlation between symptoms, implant duration, and location with surgical outcomes.
- To identify potential risks associated with retained implants.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 86 adult patients undergoing elective removal of internal fixation devices.
- Data collected on patient symptoms, implant characteristics, and surgical outcomes.
- Analysis of complication rates and discussion of potential long-term risks.
Main Results:
- 91% of symptomatic patients achieved good outcomes after implant removal.
- 95% of asymptomatic patients experienced no complications.
- Overall complication rate was 3%, including refracture, nerve injury, and hematoma.
- No wound infections were reported.
Conclusions:
- Routine removal of metal implants generally yields favorable results.
- Asymptomatic implants may be safely retained, with exceptions for certain long bone plates.
- Potential risks of retained implants include refracture, osteopenia, metal toxicity, and neoplasia.