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How Safe Is Removal Of Screws Of A Titanium Rod On The Back?
Question: Hi, I had a clean break on my femur in a car accident back in 04. For the last couple of years the screws that keep the rod in place have been really bothering me. I try to stay active in the gym and do a lot of weightlifting and squatting. I'm hoping I'm not causing any major problems by doing this. I hear that the titanium rod can shatter if enough pressure is applied to it.
I was planning on getting only the screws removed, but should I get the rod removed as well? Would it even be possible after 11-12 years? Would the surgery be quick or do you think I'd have problems after leaving everything in my femur for so long. I had only one clean break at the top of my femur.
Thanks!
I was planning on getting only the screws removed, but should I get the rod removed as well? Would it even be possible after 11-12 years? Would the surgery be quick or do you think I'd have problems after leaving everything in my femur for so long. I had only one clean break at the top of my femur.
Thanks!
Brief Answer:
Repeat radiographs of the affected limb and get orthopedician review
Detailed Answer:
Hi! Welcome to health care magic!
First of all, it is sad to know what you had gone through, but good sign is that you didn't leave out work out and you are pretty much concerned about your physical health and exercises.
Your query needs to discuss three areas. One it has been ten years since the surgery and bone has already been formed significantly that is why your limb is bearing the weight and tolerating the exercise strains. The weight bearing will be contributed majorly now by the bone and less by the rods so it is unlikely to break like this but only issue is that over staining or heavy exercises may cause rod to break which is highly unlikely because it is now been supported by bone formation around its insertions.
Second, if screws have some edges which rub against muscle fibres during movement or troubling you then these can be removed but for that first Xray, or if needed MRI can be done to look for ample bone formation and location of screws and then can be removed subsequently with surgery. Only trouble is that orthopedician weighs the benefits of removing with respect to risks or troubles of surgery before taking you up for surgery.
Third that whether after removal, will bones be sufficient for you to sustain all the weight bearing and functional ability. Yes it will, as ten years is long enough for adequate bone deposition around the appendages and implants. Keep taking supplements for Vitamin D3 and calcium off and on.
Hope this has answered your query, if you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
Regards
Repeat radiographs of the affected limb and get orthopedician review
Detailed Answer:
Hi! Welcome to health care magic!
First of all, it is sad to know what you had gone through, but good sign is that you didn't leave out work out and you are pretty much concerned about your physical health and exercises.
Your query needs to discuss three areas. One it has been ten years since the surgery and bone has already been formed significantly that is why your limb is bearing the weight and tolerating the exercise strains. The weight bearing will be contributed majorly now by the bone and less by the rods so it is unlikely to break like this but only issue is that over staining or heavy exercises may cause rod to break which is highly unlikely because it is now been supported by bone formation around its insertions.
Second, if screws have some edges which rub against muscle fibres during movement or troubling you then these can be removed but for that first Xray, or if needed MRI can be done to look for ample bone formation and location of screws and then can be removed subsequently with surgery. Only trouble is that orthopedician weighs the benefits of removing with respect to risks or troubles of surgery before taking you up for surgery.
Third that whether after removal, will bones be sufficient for you to sustain all the weight bearing and functional ability. Yes it will, as ten years is long enough for adequate bone deposition around the appendages and implants. Keep taking supplements for Vitamin D3 and calcium off and on.
Hope this has answered your query, if you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
Regards
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
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