There is a possibility that you may have your surgical hardware removed after the addressed bones and ligaments have healed. External fixators (pins and bars outside the skin) are routinely removed. This can be done in the office or with mild sedation (twilight sleep) in an operating room. Screws can be removed once healing is documented.
Internal hardware removal is usually performed because of negative symptoms from the metal, or because people do not like the feeling of the screws or plates beneath their skin. In rare cases, this surgery is performed to remove screws across a joint that was spanned for temporary stabilization. The metal serves no purpose once your body is done healing. Non-absorbable stitches can be removed too, but only if they cause symptoms.
Are you wondering if you’ll be able to have your hardware removed once enough healing has taken place?
If so, let Dr. Silverman help.
For more information about hardware removal, keep reading.
What Happens Before Hardware Removal Surgery?
The surgical center will provide you with individualized advice in the days and weeks leading up to your operation. On the day of surgery, you will be given antibiotics just before the operation to help prevent infection.
What Happens During Hardware Removal Surgery?
During surgery you will undergo a light anesthesia. Incisions are made directly over the hardware to remove the plates, screws, and wires. Usually, we are able to utilize the previous scars, but sometimes a separate incision is required. Numbing medication is injected around the wounds so that you will not have pain for several hours after surgery.
What Happens After Hardware Removal Surgery?
You will be permitted to leave the surgical center once your anesthesiologist is satisfied that you have recovered. During this recovery time your family member may take your prescription to the nearest pharmacy. You will be in a sterile protective dressing. You will also be given crutches. Take your narcotic pain control medications before falling asleep or as you feel the “numbing” effect wearing off. Remember, post-operative pain is much easier to control with prevention.
Hardware Removal General Recovery Timeline
Keep your operative leg elevated for the first 2-3 days after surgery. Also, keep the area clean and dry while the skin heals, and change your dressing each day after the third day. Bear weight according to your particular instructions on the hospital discharge form.
Your first post-operative visit is 2-3 weeks after surgery. Your stitches will be gently removed. Pain will be minimal and treated with extra-strength Tylenol. Please keep them dry. Work and driving restrictions are rare and will vary depending on your particular case. Unless we are treating other problems, this will be your last visit.
For more helpful tips, check out these rehab exercise videos that will help you recover, or reach out to Dr. Silverman for more information!