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Pros & Cons of Removing Metal Rod Plates From the Body

The removal of steel rods from a body part involves a serious procedure that follows up surgical repair of serious trauma. Generally performed months after the trauma repair has been applied and healing as been allowed to occur, removal essentially takes out the metal support parts that allowed shattered bones to solidify again. In some cases, removal brings its own risks, especially if performed too early.

  1. Infection Risks

    • Any time you have surgery or procedures down to the bone, the body system can be opened to infection. Particularly with steel rods that go into bone, the incision and the cavity are opened to air and bacteria potentially entering during the removal process. While medical procedures are protective in nature to prevent this possibility, the problem cannot be ruled out 100 percent from occurring.

    Premature Removal

    • The next problem with rod removal occurs if the procedure is performed too early. The critical function of the insert is to support bone that is so traumatically damaged it can't handle its own structural demands with normal body healing. If the bone is not yet ready and fully healed, a premature removal could result in the bone catastrophically breaking again with a twist or application of weight.

    Security Issues

    • For those who have to travel with metal rods inserted into the body, going through port security measures such as airport screening systems can be frustrating. Despite carrying medical paperwork to document the presence of the rods, patients frequently are exposed to additional searching and security procedures from tripping alarms. Removal of rods generally stops this sort of privacy intrusion occurring on a regular basis.

    Weather Reaction

    • Rods and other metal inserts in the body seem to make their presence particularly felt when weather takes a turn for the bad with rain, cold and storms. Common symptoms include dull pain, stiffness and a cold feeling in the specific location of the insert. Removal, similar to security issues, tends to make the problem go away but could result in other issues if the body is not fully healed from the original injury.

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