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Implant removal in children
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Municipal Hospital, Moltkestraße 90, 76133, Karlsruhe, Germany. peter.schmittenbecher@klinikum-karlsruhe.de.
Summary
Routine implant removal in children is debated. Decisions should weigh individual benefits against risks, as evidence for or against routine removal is lacking.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Surgical Procedures
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Implant removal in children is a common procedure.
- Theoretical risks include growth disturbance, infection, and implant migration.
- Concerns about removal complications and difficulty also exist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current practices and literature on pediatric implant removal.
- To evaluate the arguments for and against routine implant removal in children.
Main Methods:
- Review of current surgical procedures for implant removal in children.
- Literature search on the topic of pediatric implant removal.
Main Results:
- No clear recommendation exists for routine implant removal.
- K-wires and intramedullary nails are typically removed.
- Screws and plates may be retained if asymptomatic; external fixator removal is standard.
Conclusions:
- Implant removal decisions must be individualized.
- Benefits of removal must outweigh risks and complications.
- The procedure should not be more extensive than insertion.