Can I Remove My Clavicle Plate After 8-9 Months? Seeking Alternatives

Q: Can I Remove My Clavicle Plate After 8-9 Months? Seeking Alternatives

Dear lilas33： All questions must be addressed by reviewing the X-rays and examining the patient in person to provide accurate answers. <br>1. <br>If the X-ray shows that the fracture has healed, then the removal of the plate can be considered after two months. <br>2. <br>If the X

Is it possible to remove the steel plate after 8 to 9 months? Can I have it removed at another hospital?

Dear Dr.
Luo,
Hello! Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer my questions.
I had surgery on my left clavicle and had a plate and screws inserted, and it has now been six months.
However, I have a small frame and the plate is causing me significant discomfort, especially where the end of the plate rubs against my muscle, causing severe pain that makes it difficult for me to sleep.
I informed the original surgeon about this, but he said I am overthinking it and questioned whether my pain indicates that he did not perform the surgery well.
I have been very polite to him, but the pain is truly unbearable; pressing on the muscle next to the end of the plate is excruciating.
He mentioned that it might be 1 to 2 years before I need to have it removed, but I work in a public job and the constant pain is deeply affecting my daily life and work.
I would like to ask you two questions:
1.
Can I endure the pain for another 8 to 9 months before having the plate removed? Are there any potential complications? I also fractured two ribs, and the pain subsided after two months, so I believe my bone quality is still good.
Recently, an X-ray showed that the healing is progressing well.
Is it necessary to wait a full year before removal?
2.
If my original surgeon refuses to remove the plate, can I seek another hospital's physician to do it? Is there a risk that the screws and plate may be difficult to remove due to different brands? Or do all surgeons have the necessary tools (screws) for removal?
Your response is extremely important to me.
I truly doubt whether I can endure the pain for another 1 to 2 years before removal.
Relying on pain medication is not a solution, and the lack of sleep makes it hard to cope with my demanding job.

Thank you very much for your help!
Wishing you and your family all the best!
Sincerely,
Lily

lily, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/02/28

Dr. Luo Zhongwei reply Orthopedics

Dear lilas33: All questions must be addressed by reviewing the X-rays and examining the patient in person to provide accurate answers.
1.
If the X-ray shows that the fracture has healed, then the removal of the plate can be considered after two months.
2.
If the X-ray indicates that the fracture has not healed, another surgery will be necessary, at a minimum to perform bone grafting (and any errors must be corrected).
3.
The area of tenderness can only be assessed in person to determine the cause.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2012/02/28

More Info

Dear Lily,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the discomfort you are experiencing from the clavicle plate. I understand how challenging it can be to manage pain and discomfort, especially when it affects your daily life and work. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Can I wait until 8-9 months to remove the plate? Are there any long-term effects?
In general, the decision to remove a plate or any hardware after a fracture depends on several factors, including the healing process, the amount of discomfort you're experiencing, and the potential for complications. While many surgeons recommend waiting at least 12 months before considering removal, this is not a strict rule. If your X-rays show that the bone has healed well and you are experiencing significant discomfort due to the plate, it may be reasonable to discuss early removal with your surgeon.
Regarding long-term effects, most patients do not experience significant complications from leaving the plate in place, but discomfort can persist, especially if the plate is prominent or if there is irritation of the surrounding soft tissues. If the pain is affecting your quality of life, it is worth discussing the possibility of removal sooner rather than later.
2. If my original surgeon is unwilling to remove the plate, can I seek a second opinion?
Absolutely, seeking a second opinion is a common and acceptable practice in medicine. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, consulting another orthopedic surgeon can provide you with additional insights and options. Different surgeons may have varying thresholds for hardware removal based on their experiences and philosophies.
As for the concern about different brands of plates and screws, while there may be slight variations in the design and removal techniques, most orthopedic surgeons are well-equipped to handle the removal of hardware regardless of the manufacturer. They typically have the necessary instruments to remove screws and plates, and they can assess the situation during the procedure.

In conclusion, it is crucial to prioritize your comfort and well-being. If the pain is significantly impacting your daily life, it is reasonable to advocate for your needs. Discussing your symptoms and concerns openly with your current surgeon or seeking a second opinion can help you find a solution that works for you.
I hope this information helps you make an informed decision. Please take care of yourself, and I wish you a speedy resolution to your discomfort.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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