Pain and Recovery After Upper Arm Surgery: Your Questions Answered

Q: Pain and Recovery After Upper Arm Surgery: Your Questions Answered

Mr. <br>Lin： Removing the steel plate will not be more painful than before. <br>However, I recommend waiting until the clavicle fracture has healed before undergoing surgery to remove it. <br>Once the clavicle has healed without surgery, it will not be more prone to fractures. <b

I have a right upper arm fracture, and the steel pin has not been removed for 2 years!

Hello, Director: I have a fracture of the right humerus.
It has been two years since my surgery, and I plan to have the metal screws removed after this summer.
Will the removal be more painful than the initial insertion of the screws? I also have a left clavicle fracture that was treated with a figure-eight bandage and did not require surgery.
Will this affect the removal of the screws from my right humerus? Since my clavicle was not surgically repaired, once the bone heals properly, will it be more prone to fractures than before? Generally, how long does it take for a bone fracture to fully heal? Thank you for your assistance, Director Ye! I appreciate your hard work!

Lin Xiansheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/28

Dr. Ye Qingnian reply Orthopedics

Mr.
Lin: Removing the steel plate will not be more painful than before.
However, I recommend waiting until the clavicle fracture has healed before undergoing surgery to remove it.
Once the clavicle has healed without surgery, it will not be more prone to fractures.
For a clavicle fracture, use a figure-eight bandage for stabilization for 6-8 weeks before starting rehabilitation.
Generally, it takes about 6-9 months for the bone to heal completely.

Reply Date: 2006/03/28

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding your recovery after upper arm surgery and the concerns you have about the removal of the metal hardware from your previous fracture. I understand that you have been dealing with these issues for a while, and I hope to provide you with some clarity and guidance.

1. Pain During Hardware Removal: The pain associated with the removal of metal screws or plates can vary from person to person. Generally, the procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia, which should minimize discomfort during the surgery itself. However, post-operative pain can occur as the tissues heal and adjust after the hardware is removed. Many patients report that the pain from the removal is less intense than the pain experienced during the initial injury and surgery, but this is subjective. It is important to communicate with your surgeon about your pain management options before and after the procedure.

2. Impact of Left Clavicle Fracture on Right Arm Surgery: The fact that you have a left clavicle fracture that was treated conservatively (with a figure-eight bandage) should not directly affect the removal of the hardware from your right upper arm. Each fracture and recovery process is unique, and the healing of one bone does not typically impede the healing or treatment of another. However, if you are experiencing pain or limitations in your left shoulder, it may affect your overall mobility and rehabilitation post-surgery. It is essential to discuss any concerns about your left shoulder with your healthcare provider, as they may recommend physical therapy or other interventions to ensure you are in the best possible condition for the hardware removal.

3. Risk of Re-Fracture: After a bone has healed, it is generally stronger than before due to the remodeling process. However, the risk of re-fracture can depend on several factors, including the location of the fracture, the quality of the bone, and any underlying conditions that may affect bone health (such as osteoporosis). If your clavicle has healed properly and you have returned to normal activities without pain, the risk of re-fracture should be low. Nonetheless, it is advisable to engage in a gradual return to activities and to follow any recommendations from your healthcare provider regarding physical therapy and strengthening exercises.

4. Time for Complete Recovery: The time it takes for a bone to fully heal can vary based on the type of fracture, the age of the patient, and overall health. Generally, most fractures take about 6 to 12 weeks to heal sufficiently for normal activities, but complete recovery, including strength and range of motion, can take several months. It is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for regular assessments and to engage in rehabilitation exercises as recommended.

In conclusion, I encourage you to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your concerns and recovery process. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and ensure that you are on the right track for a successful recovery. Remember to prioritize your rehabilitation exercises and follow any prescribed pain management strategies to facilitate your healing process.

Wishing you a smooth recovery and relief from any discomfort you may be experiencing.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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