Metal Removal

In surgical procedures, nails, plates and screws made of titanium are used. Nevertheless, in most cases, metal removal is recommended.

After the treated fracture has healed (3-18 months, depending on the fracture, treatment and location), the inserted plates and screws for fracture stabilization should be removed again. This is done as part of an outpatient surgical procedure.

On the one hand, screws and plates can cause irritation and even tearing of tendons over the years, on the other hand, it should be borne in mind that an artificial knee joint, for example, may become necessary in old age, especially after a fracture with joint involvement. If there is a plate in the tibial head or a nail in the shinbone, they must be removed before implanting a knee prosthesis. If the fracture and its treatment were many years ago, metal removal can be very difficult and time-consuming due to ingrowth or overgrowth with the bone. Thus, nails, plates, screws, etc. should be removed after safe fracture healing (to be seen on X-ray) after approx. 1/2 to 11/2 years, sometimes even earlier, depending on the type and location of the fracture and also the age of the patient.

Of course, you can have the implant removed at Sportclinic Zillertal , which has the advantage that we perform the surgical technique frequently and our surgeons are familiar with the material used and each other's skills. Your surgeon can be booked by appointment.