Implants are medical devices used to replace a deformed or damaged bone, cartilage or joint. Generally, the implant is fitted into place, enabling the bone to grow into it for improved strength. In some cases, the orthopaedic implant may need to be cemented to enhance adhesion. www.kindleclinics.com

1. ORTHO IMPLANTS &
WHEN TO REMOVE THEM

2. Implants are
commonly used in
orthopedic surgery
to fix joint and bone
problems.

3. Plates, screws,
intramedullary nails,
External fixators and pins
are all examples of
implants that are used to
reconstruct an injured
joint, fix a fractured bone,
or alter the skeletal
alignment.

4. The implant race
Union at fracture site will prevent implant failure And Implant
failure will prevent union at the fracture site
What reaches their first will determine the out come of the
surgery

5. Most common materials
used in orthopedic
implants
• Stainless steel
• Ceramics
• Cobalt-based alloys
• Titanium

6. Why do we need to remove the implants at the first place?
In most of the cases, orthopedic issues are fully treated,
They no longer need an implant and can be removed
And there are more scenarios like ….

7. • Improper implant placement
• Metal irritation with pain and
pressure at prominent
sites
• Displacement/ loosening of the
implant
• Allergic reaction to implant
materials
• Stress Sheilding effect

8. • Implant failure as a result of an
accident
• Infection around the implant
• Pain at the implant site

9. Optimal time for removal of each implant depending on the
location
Implant Type Months

10. Possible complications of implant
removal surgery include:
• An incomplete removal
• Delayed wound healing
• Post-operative re-fracture
• Tissue and nerve damage
• Post-operative bleeding
• Joint stiffness
An implant removal surgery can either be the easiest surgery or the most challenging
surgery an Orthopedician can encounter in his life time.
Make sure you visit an orthopedic surgeon who has the entire Armamentarium to perform a
successful implant removal with no collateral damage to healthy tissue or bone.

11. Some important post-operative care you should
consider during the recovery time of implant
removal.
• The sutures are covered with a small bandage that you should not replace until two
weeks after surgery;
• The pressing should be kept dry till the sutures are removed.
• Be sure to take the prescribed medications & Anti bodies.

12. • Do not load the effected part till furture advised by the doctor (2 to 4 weeks);
• Sedentary work is advised for the first 2-4 weeks;
• For the first two weeks after surgery, it is common to feel mild to moderate pain
( Reduces day by day )
• In 6 months, you should be fully recovered (no pain, no swelling, ability to walk, and
return to sport).

13. FAQ
Is Implant removal mandatory ?
Is it painful ?
Can I get a CT scan or MRI ?