Can I Remove Metal Pins from My Legs in Taiwan After Surgery Abroad?

Q: Can I Remove Metal Pins from My Legs in Taiwan After Surgery Abroad?

Hello Mr. <br>Paul： Regarding your question, traditional steel plates and screws from different manufacturers generally adhere to standard specifications. <br>However, if a company has its own specialized materials, there are usually some differences. <br>It is best to know the b

Do not return to the original hospital for the steel nail removal surgery?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask: I had a car accident in mainland China in 2013 that resulted in fractures in both legs.
Now I want to undergo surgery to remove the metal screws in Taiwan.
Is this feasible? I am concerned that the specifications of the tools used in different countries may vary.
Additionally, I currently do not have the original surgical records or X-rays.
Can I simply get new X-rays taken at the hospital? Thank you.

Paul, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/01

Dr. Xie Hongjia reply Orthopedics

Hello Mr.
Paul: Regarding your question, traditional steel plates and screws from different manufacturers generally adhere to standard specifications.
However, if a company has its own specialized materials, there are usually some differences.
It is best to know the brand, as X-rays may not always accurately identify the brand used.
The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2017/10/01

More Info

Yes, you can have the metal pins removed from your legs in Taiwan after surgery abroad. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind regarding the procedure, the tools used, and the necessary medical documentation.

First and foremost, it is essential to consult with an orthopedic surgeon who has experience in dealing with cases involving previous surgeries performed in different countries. They will be able to assess your current condition and determine the best course of action. The surgeon will likely want to perform a thorough examination, including a physical assessment and imaging studies, to evaluate the status of the metal pins and the surrounding bone and soft tissue.

Regarding the concern about different countries using various specifications for surgical tools, it is important to note that most orthopedic instruments are standardized to a certain extent. Surgeons are trained to work with a variety of implant systems, and they can adapt to the specific needs of your case. The primary focus will be on the removal of the pins and ensuring that the surrounding bone is healthy enough to support the removal process without complications.

Since you do not have the original surgical records or X-rays from your previous surgery, it is advisable to obtain new imaging studies. An X-ray will provide the surgeon with valuable information about the position of the metal pins, the condition of the bone, and any potential complications that may have arisen since your initial surgery. This imaging will help the surgeon plan the removal procedure more effectively.

In addition to X-rays, the surgeon may also recommend other imaging modalities, such as a CT scan or MRI, especially if there are concerns about the surrounding soft tissues or if there is a suspicion of complications like infection or non-union of the bone. These imaging studies will provide a comprehensive view of your leg's anatomy and help the surgeon make informed decisions.

Once the surgeon has evaluated your condition and reviewed the imaging studies, they will discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery with you. The removal of metal pins is generally considered a routine procedure, but it does carry some risks, including infection, bleeding, and potential damage to surrounding structures. The surgeon will explain these risks and help you weigh them against the benefits of having the pins removed.

In summary, you can have the metal pins removed in Taiwan, but it is crucial to consult with an orthopedic surgeon who can evaluate your specific situation. New imaging studies will be necessary to guide the surgical plan, and the surgeon will ensure that the procedure is performed safely and effectively. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They are there to support you through the process and ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible.

Similar Q&A

Removing Foreign Surgical Pins: Options for Patients in Taiwan

Hello, Doctor, I would like to ask you a question. Two years ago, a family member of mine had surgery in Vietnam and had metal screws placed in their lower leg. Now they want to have them removed. Do they have to go back to Vietnam for the removal? Last month, during an examinati...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
It is necessary to examine the shape and brand of the metal pin. Appropriate tools are required to retrieve it. You can try visiting a larger hospital to consult with a physician about the possibility of removal.

Timing for Removing Pins After Foot Surgery: Key Considerations

Hello Dr. Shi: I have a fracture in the third phalanx of my left foot's third toe. Since I am currently abroad, I underwent surgery on October 10, where a metal pin was inserted. The surgical costs here are quite high, so I am evaluating the possibility of returning to Taiwa...

Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
Dear Sir/Madam: In the case of a distal toe fracture, if it is not open and there is no significant displacement, surgery is generally not performed, as the bone fragments are too small to be fixed. If surgery is truly necessary, it is usually done with wire fixation. The incisio...

Convincing Your Doctor to Remove Intramedullary Nails After Surgery

Hello Doctor, I was in a car accident in December 2022, resulting in a comminuted fracture of my thigh. After surgery, I was fortunate to recover. It has been almost two years now, and I would like to have the metal screws removed. However, when I inquired about the possibility o...

Dr. Zhan Xian reply Orthopedics
Whether to remove the metal pins is not definitive; if the patient experiences discomfort or if the pins are protruding, they need to be addressed. Metal pins are considered foreign objects in the body. If the patient is relatively young and in good health, it may be worth discus...

Impact of Removing Surgical Pins on Ankle Mobility and Recovery

Hello Dr. Lee: Will the mobility of my foot be affected right after the removal of the metal screws? Will I need to undergo rehabilitation again? Is the bone more fragile? The area where my fracture was sutured (ankle) is about 10 centimeters; can the screws be removed under loca...

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Hello: In response to your question... The removal of ankle screws can be performed under local anesthesia, but it is important to have a psychological preparation beforehand. The anesthesia process may be more painful (as multiple injections may be required), and there will be a...