Post-Surgery Concerns After Steel Nail Removal in Orthopedic Patients

Post-operative issues following the removal of metal screws?

Hello, Dr.
Shi!
1.
I had three steel pins removed from my right femur fracture on August 24, 2023.
Due to my osteoporosis, I was concerned about incomplete bone healing, so I asked my attending physician to use BMP material to fill the bone voids left by the pin removal.
At my 20-day postoperative follow-up, the doctor did not mention any need for further monitoring of the bone voids.
However, the X-ray shows that the bone does not seem to have healed completely; it appears that the filling is complete, but there are still marks from where the pins were placed.
Should I seek further follow-up?
2.
The surgical site is not painful, but the surrounding muscles are experiencing significant soreness and stiffness.
Is this a normal reaction?
3.
Generally, how long does it take for the bone to fully recover after pin removal? If I want to return to weight training or hiking, how long would you recommend I wait before doing so? Thank you!

Ruitata, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/17

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

1.
You can get an X-ray in about six months.

2.
Normal.

3.
It will take about six months.

Reply Date: 2023/09/17

More Info

After the removal of steel nails from orthopedic surgery, particularly in cases involving bone fractures, patients often have several concerns regarding their recovery and the healing process. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions based on medical knowledge and practices.

1. Follow-Up and Bone Healing: It is crucial to continue monitoring your recovery after the removal of the steel nails, especially considering your history of osteoporosis. While your doctor may not have indicated any immediate concerns during your last visit, it is advisable to schedule follow-up appointments to ensure that the bone is healing properly. X-rays can provide valuable insights into the healing process, and if you notice any unusual symptoms or if the area feels unstable, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. The presence of marks where the nails were previously inserted can be normal, but it’s essential to ensure that the bone is regenerating adequately.

2. Muscle Pain and Stiffness: Experiencing muscle pain and stiffness around the surgical site is a common reaction post-surgery. This discomfort can be attributed to several factors, including muscle atrophy from disuse during recovery, inflammation, or the body’s natural healing response. Engaging in gentle physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises, as recommended by your healthcare provider, can help alleviate stiffness and improve muscle strength. However, it’s important to listen to your body and not push through severe pain.

3. Recovery Timeline: The timeline for complete recovery after the removal of steel nails can vary significantly based on individual factors, including age, overall health, and the extent of the initial injury. Generally, bone healing can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months. For someone with osteoporosis, it may take longer for the bone to regain its strength and integrity. As for returning to activities like weight training or hiking, it is typically recommended to wait at least 6 to 12 weeks post-surgery, depending on your healing progress and your doctor’s advice. Engaging in these activities too soon can risk re-injury or complications.

In summary, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your recovery. Regular follow-ups, monitoring for any unusual symptoms, and adhering to a rehabilitation program can significantly enhance your recovery experience. If you have any concerns about your healing process or if you experience any new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and safety should always come first, especially after orthopedic surgery.

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