Post-Fracture Surgery: When to Remove Pins and Assess Healing - Orthopedics

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Hello! Thank you for your detailed question regarding your post-fracture recovery. It sounds like you've been through quite a journey since your right radius fracture in late 2016. Let's break down your concerns and provide some insights based on medical knowledge.

Firstly, it’s not uncommon for fractures, especially complex ones like a comminuted fracture of the radius, to take a significant amount of time to heal. Factors such as age, bone quality (including conditions like osteoporosis), and the nature of the fracture itself can all influence healing time. In your case, the fact that you have had ongoing issues with healing and that one of the pins has become misaligned suggests that your body may be struggling to heal the fracture adequately.

Regarding your specific questions:
1. Pain and Sensation: The "soreness" and the "clicking" sensation you feel when moving your hand are not unusual after such an injury and surgery. This could be due to several reasons, including the presence of hardware (like pins and plates), scar tissue formation, or even the healing process itself. It’s essential to communicate these sensations to your doctor, as they can provide a more tailored assessment based on your physical examination and imaging studies.

2. When to Assess Healing: Typically, bone healing can be assessed through follow-up X-rays. In general, a fracture is considered healed when there is evidence of callus formation and bridging of the fracture site on imaging, which usually occurs around 6 to 12 weeks post-injury, but this can vary widely based on individual circumstances. Since you mentioned that it has been a year and a half, your doctor may want to conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging, to assess the current state of your bone healing.

3. Monitoring and Next Steps: Given that your doctor has advised you to monitor the situation and that there is a possibility of healing without the need for artificial joints or bone grafts, it’s crucial to follow their recommendations closely. Regular follow-ups will help track your progress. If you continue to experience pain or if the situation does not improve, further interventions may be necessary, which could include surgical options to remove the hardware or even consider joint replacement if the bone does not heal adequately.

4. Physical Activity: It’s wise to be cautious with your movements and avoid putting excessive strain on your wrist until you receive clearance from your healthcare provider. Gradual rehabilitation exercises, as recommended by a physical therapist, can help improve mobility and strength without risking further injury.

5. Long-term Outlook: The potential for full recovery and return to normal function varies. Many patients can regain significant function even after prolonged healing times, especially with appropriate rehabilitation. However, the presence of hardware and any complications from the fracture can affect the final outcome.

In summary, your situation is not uncommon, and ongoing monitoring is essential. Keep in close contact with your healthcare provider, and don’t hesitate to voice any concerns you have during your follow-up visits. They can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific case. Best wishes for your continued recovery!