QUESTION:
My age is 28, I got a fracture in the left forearm, both ulna, and radius, and fixed with SS plate and screw. Now, the fracture healed well. It’s been 1.5 years since the operation to fix plates.
Now, there is no issue in my hand, but I want to remove the plate and screw. I am ready to rest my hand for 3 months after the plate and screw removal. Can you suggest to me if it is safe to remove the plate and screw from my left arm?
ANSWER:
Dr. Foreman: Typically, we like to wait a minimum of one year following surgery to remove hardware which you have attained. If x-rays show the fractures to be well-healed, then the plates and screws can be removed if you desire.
Our hands and elbows stay engaged all day long on our phones, computers, and during day-to-day activities. It’s no surprise the hand’s intricate and complex mechanism of bones, ligaments, muscles, and nerves can sustain injuries or develop certain conditions, like carpal tunnel syndrome. Many things can also contribute to elbow conditions. That’s why it’s important to choose sub-specialty care. Azalea Orthopedics’ team of hand and elbow surgeons can diagnose and treat your pain so you can start living pain-free. You can request an appointment online today or call us at 903.939.7500.
