Question: I BROKE my femur 3.75 years ago and the surgeon inserted a titanium rod. Since then I have not been able to get back my normal energy and have been diagnosed with cold agglutinin disease. What used to be fun for me is now work, i.e. my mountaineering activities. My hematologist told me not to make this connection, but I think there is one and believe if I got the rod removed, my cold agglutinin disease would disappear. I believe my body is fighting that rod; and trying unsuccessfully to attack it with antibodies. With the rod gone, I would have more bone marrow and more red blood cells. I was very angry after surgery that the rod was put in without my permission or knowledge. I understand in Japan the rods are always removed.

Thank you for your answer. I have heard it (about the flat bones) before but am unconvinced. All the marrow in my femur is not there any more, and it is bound to have an effect on me. It MUST have an effect. Also, during surgery, 2 bags of blood were given to me, which also could have caused an immune response.
Emotionally, I have hated this rod since day one, and this hatred continues to today. I think at many levels therefore, that I am fighting this foreign object. I haven't told a doctor yet about my hatred, because I don't want to insult your hard work. But the hatred is there all the time. And I feel I have been fighting for my life since the dam thing was put in there.
Also, the surgeon told me that in Japan, all titanium rods are removed. So I think the Japanese orthopaedic surgeons must have good reason to do so.
Meanwhile, I don't have my normal energy, continue physiotherapy for post surgery pain, plus have tried many other options to get back my energy, get rid of pain, and enjoy my life again. I will not have good health until this is done. So your answer didn't help me at all. I hope you can think of something different.