Quick Summary
- Plate removal surgery is not necessary for every patient after a hand fracture heals.
- Most metal plates and screws remain safely inside the body without causing any problems.
- Hand plate removal surgery is recommended only when the implant causes pain, irritation, infection, or limits hand movement.
- At Muthu Hospital, one patient underwent implant removal after experiencing persistent discomfort despite complete bone healing.
- Dr. M. Mithran carefully evaluates every patient before recommending implant removal to ensure surgery is truly necessary.
Why Do Patients Ask About Plate Removal Surgery?
Many patients think plates and screws should be removed once a fracture heals. However, that’s not always necessary. According to Dr. M. Mithran, implants are removed only if they cause pain, irritation, infection, or restrict hand movement. If the implant isn’t causing any problems, it can usually remain safely inside the body. The decision to perform hand plate removal surgery depends on the patient’s symptoms, X-rays, and overall recovery—not just because the bone has healed.
Hand Plate Removal Surgery, what is it?
Hand plate removal surgery is a procedure to remove the metal plate and screws used to treat a hand fracture after the bone has healed completely. These implants will generally stay safely in the body but if they are causing pain, irritations, infections, or if they are limiting hand movement, surgery may be recommended. The surgeon will then very carefully extract the implant through the old incision without harming the fine bones, tendons and nerves of the hand during the surgery.
Why don’t all the implants need to be removed?
Many people think that plates and screws should be taken out when a fracture is healed. However, that’s not always necessary. The vast majority of orthopedic implants will not need to be removed unless the person is experiencing some sort of pain, infection or limited range of motion in their hand. Dr. M. Mithran will thoroughly assess the patient’s symptoms, hand appearance and the X-rays to make sure the fracture has healed fully before suggesting hand plate removal surgery. The need for surgery is recommended only if the potential risks are outweighed by the potential benefits.
What was the reason for recommending Hand Plate Removal Surgery for this Patient?
One patient was referred for evaluation of pain around the implant after the fracture of his hand had healed at Muthu Hospital. Once the hand was examined, and after reviewing the x-rays, Dr. M. Mithran determined that the discomfort was being caused by the implant and recommended hand plate removal surgery. He also said that sometimes the plates and screws are so tightly embedded in the bone that it can be difficult to remove them. This case demonstrates that removal of the plate will only be advised when this implant is causing symptoms, rather than simply because the fracture has healed.
What will happen at the time of hand plate removal surgery?
Dr. Mithran thoroughly examines the patient’s X-rays prior to surgery to ensure that the hand bone is completely healed. After healing is confirmed, the procedure will be scheduled to safely remove the implant.
In hand plate removal surgery, the surgeon will reopen the previous surgical scar and carefully expose the metal plate and screws, removing them but preserving the surrounding tendons, nerves and blood vessels. There are numerous delicate structures in the hand, so precision and surgical experience is required.
Upon removal of the implant, a wound closing technique is applied and the patient is given comprehensive information on how to care for the wound, exercises for the hands, and follow-up appointments. The majority of patients make a gradual recovery and return to their normal activities.
What are risks to the surgeon when removing implants?
Plate removal surgery is generally safe but there are some technical problems that can occur. Sometimes the screws lock into the bone or the head of the screw is worn or damaged, and it is harder to remove the screw from the bone than anticipated.
That’s why Dr. Mithran speaks with all his patients about these options prior to surgery. Patients are more likely to be comfortable with the treatment plan if they know what they can expect if there are any possible challenges. These situations can generally be safely dealt with if planned carefully, the appropriate tools are used, and the surgeon has the proper skills.
Removing vs. Not Removing the Hand Plate
| Leaving the Implant | Removal of the Hand Plate Surgery |
| Appropriate if there is no pain or discomfort. | When the implant is painful or irritating, this is recommended. |
| Additional surgery is not needed. | Removes plates and/or screws once the bone has fully healed. |
| No recovery period. | Quick recovery after surgery.Rapid recuperation after surgery. |
| No surgical risks. | Minor infection, bleeding or screw problems. |
| Caution: It is best for people who do not have any symptoms. | For patients with persistent implant-related symptoms, it is recommended to remove the implant. |
Treatment will depend on your symptoms, clinical exam, and X-ray. Dr. Mithran does not remove all implants routinely, but only when the surgery will likely enhance the function of the hand and/or comfort of the patient.
Why Choose Muthu Hospital for Plate Removal Surgery?
Muthu Hospital has been delivering reliable orthopedic treatment to the patients of Tamilnadu since 1953. Dr. M. Mithran is a specialist in fracture care, trauma surgery, joint replacement, arthroscopy and plate removal surgery including hand plate removal surgery.
Each patient is provided with an individualized treatment plan that takes into account their symptoms, lifestyle and recovery objectives. The orthopedic team’s goal is to provide the patient with safe treatments, a rapid recovery and a normal hand function, from the time of diagnosis until post-operative rehabilitation.
Find an Experienced Orthopedic Surgeon to remove the hand plate?
Do not overlook pain in the area around a healed fractured hand. But there are times when implants may cause pain, irritation, or limited hand function, and hand plate removal surgery might be the answer.
If you have pain following heal fracture, visit Dr. M. Mithuan, Muthu Hospital. The detailed evaluation will reveal if plate removal surgery is indicated and what will provide the safest platform for comfort and hand function in the long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs hand plate removal surgery?
Patients with persistent pain, implant irritation, infection, restricted hand movement, or prominent hardware after complete bone healing may benefit from hand plate removal surgery. The decision is made after a clinical examination and X-ray evaluation.
Can metal plates remain inside the hand permanently?
Yes. Most hand plates and screws can remain safely inside the body for many years if they do not cause pain, infection, or movement problems.
Is hand plate removal surgery painful?
No. The procedure is performed under anesthesia. Mild discomfort after surgery is normal and usually improves with medication and proper follow-up care.
How long does recovery take after hand plate removal surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the patient’s healing and the location of the implant. Many patients return to light daily activities within a few weeks, while complete recovery may take longer.
Can every implant be removed successfully?
Most implants can be removed successfully. However, occasionally a jammed screw or damaged screw head can make the procedure more challenging. Your surgeon will discuss these possibilities before surgery.
When can I return to work after surgery?
Many patients return to desk-based work within one to two weeks. Those with physically demanding jobs may require additional recovery time based on their surgeon’s advice.
Is implant removal always necessary after a fracture heals?
No. Most implants do not need to be removed unless they cause persistent symptoms or other medical problems.
Why should I choose an experienced orthopedic surgeon for implant removal?
Implant removal requires careful planning and precision. An experienced orthopedic surgeon can safely remove the implant while protecting the surrounding bones, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels.
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