15/12/2022
Performed an implant (plate) removal on a patient who had got this plate put 11 years back.
Patients often ask when would it be an ideal time to remove an implant (nail/plate)?
Ideally it depends on the time taken for the fracture to completely unite, but would range anywhere from 6 months in some cases to 2 years in others. Waiting over 2-3 years to get an implant out can cause several complications ranging from inability to remove the implant to refracturing the bone while attempting to do so. In simple terms, the longer you wait the more difficult it may get for the surgeon to remove the implant.
One can even leave the implant alone for life if it’s not causing any symptoms. Consult your Orthopaedic surgeon if you have any further questions about the same.
