Hi,I am Dr. Gopal Goel (Orthopaedic Surgeon). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
Should Metal From The Incision Line Of Microvascular Decompression Surgery Be Removed?
Ten years ago I had microvascular decompression surgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia. I have some "hardware" that is now extruding through the incision line. The opening is approximately 3/4" and there are three pieces (circular loops of mesh or plate) that are visible. I was sent to a dermatologist who said he would need to refer me to a plastic surgeon to create a flap to cover the "hardware." He is waiting for my records from John Hopkins and no referral has been made. While I am waiting, I am considering that it might be a good idea to actually remove all metal that might be in the incision line. I am assuming that the bone has filled in and no longer needs support and that a burr hole would be sufficiently protected by the dura. I realize that all consideration would depend on how much mesh/plate is involved but am I correct in my assumption that the hardware is no longer needed. I do not want this just covered up, only to have it break through at a later time.
HI Thank for asking to HCM I really appreciate your concern, as you are thinking to remove the device, it is some what good idea but you have to discuss it with surgeon because surgeon is the final judge the procedure would be feasible to surgeon and safe for you that is the big hurdle, removing of mesh is not that much easy it some time jeopardize the condition, you have to go for second and third opinion before thinking to remove it, I hope you can understand this take care and have nice day.
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Should Metal From The Incision Line Of Microvascular Decompression Surgery Be Removed?
HI Thank for asking to HCM I really appreciate your concern, as you are thinking to remove the device, it is some what good idea but you have to discuss it with surgeon because surgeon is the final judge the procedure would be feasible to surgeon and safe for you that is the big hurdle, removing of mesh is not that much easy it some time jeopardize the condition, you have to go for second and third opinion before thinking to remove it, I hope you can understand this take care and have nice day.