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When Can Plate Fixation From Arm Be Removed After A Surgery ?

Posted on Wed, 7 May 2014

Question: Hi Doctor, One year ago XXXXXXX 2013, I had a road accident and my left arm's humerus bone got fractured. I had a plat fixation done. Now after more than one year my arm is completely fine but I have two doubts: 1- Should I remove the plate from my arm now or left it as-is?when should I do that,how much time it will take to heel and is it again a major operation? 2- The earlier operation left me with a ugly scar( I tried madarma but still it is there).will the new operation again give me new scars and how to heel them quickly? 3- Can I start doing gym and weight lifting with that arm.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer: No need for plate removal Detailed Answer: Hello, I have read your question and will answer in same sequence. 1. I do not suggest you to remove the plate. There is no harm in leaving the plate inside. Also there is chances on infection and nerve injury if removal is tried. Even re fracture can occur. 2. If surgery is done there is chances that scar can be worse than previous one, and healing will take more time as this time tissue has already had fibrosis. 3. You can start doing gym and minor exercises. Weight lifting can be done but start from 500 gm only. Also before starting exercises , just consult with your surgeon who has operated. Let me know if you want to ask any other question. Thanks and take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (18 minutes later)

Thanks doctor for advice, Actually the surgeon who operated me told at that time, I should remove it after 1.5-2 years. That's why I asked you ,also he told that there is a chance of infection if it remains inside as it is foreign particle in my body and it will hamper the natural growth of bone. Moreover I started doing exercise and small weight lifting after the 2-3 months of operation. Now I am able to lift around 10 Kg . But there is always a mechanical feeling in hand and a fear of plate fracture while doing day to day task. Also I am not able to start any gym or excessive or sports in fear of this plate. I am really confused now.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Do not fear at all Detailed Answer: Hello XXXX Indication of plate removal are : 1. any infection 2. Loose screw, prominent implant coming out of skin So if you are not having any above mentioned problem then you can leave the plate. Plate it self will never cause any infection. Why I am not in favor of plate removal is because it is very near to radial nerve and it can be injured during plate removal. Removal will need same size of incision and you may need some rest also as bone remain week after plate removal for one to two month. If you are able to lift 10 kg that means your fracture is completely healed, and you can start all type of exercises. Let me know if you have any other queries.Thanks and take care.

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