Implant Removal

After a surgically treated bone fracture, such as in the ankle joint, metallic foreign material often remains in the body. Plates, screws, wires, or intramedullary nails are used to stabilize the bones during fracture healing.

However, the presence of metal in the body can lead to health risks:

Further bone fractures, so-called “junction fractures,” frequently occur at the ends of plates and nails because greater vibrations occur at the metal-bone interface, as the bone cannot anatomically flex along its entire length.

Furthermore, individuals with metallic implants are more susceptible to local infections. Infectious agents particularly easily settle on inanimate structures in the human body, as they can evade the immune response in this way.

Surgical implant removal, which is usually far less complex than the original procedure, should therefore be aimed for after the bone substance has healed.

Implant Removal: Yes or No?

If the health benefits of implant removal outweigh its risks, the procedure is preferable to leaving the material in the body.

This is often the case after complete fracture healing. If a high-risk procedure is required for implant removal, or if the patient is in poor physical condition, removal should be avoided. At Dr. Schurz’s practice, I will gladly inform you about the advantages and disadvantages of implant removal in your specific case.

Surgical Procedure

Typically, the implant is removed through the existing skin incisions to perform the operation. The surgical scar can also be corrected if necessary. Most often, implant removal can take place in a significantly smaller procedure than the initial operation.

Weight-Bearing after Implant Removal

Surgical implant removals are predominantly performed on an outpatient basis. Extensive aftercare is usually not required. However, weight-bearing after implant removal should be avoided until secure wound healing, which typically occurs after suture removal (10-14 days).