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Abstract
A total of 86 adult patients who underwent routine surgery to remove metal internal
fixation devices were studied prospectively. At the time of surgery, 46 patients were
symptomatic, but only 27 requested surgery; 59 were admitted for routine surgery on
medical advice. There was no correlation between symptoms, the length of time the
implant had been in situ or the location of the implant. Good results were achieved in 91 per cent of symptomatic
patients and no problems occurred in 95 per cent of asymptomatic cases. Overall there
was a 3 per cent complication rate including one refracture, one radial nerve injury
and one haematoma. No wound infections occurred.
Potential difficulties in the removal of implants and possible risks of retained implants
are discussed, relating to refracture, osteopenia, metal toxicity and neoplasia. In
conclusion, it may be appropriate to leave asymptomatic implants in situ, except for femoral and tibial diaphyseal plates.
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
March 28,
1991
Identification
Copyright
© 1992 Published by Elsevier Inc.
