Downloads: 2 | Views: 55 | Weekly Hits: ⮙1 | Monthly Hits: ⮙1
Research Paper | Medical Surgical | India | Volume 14 Issue 4, April 2025 | Rating: 5.1 / 10
Evaluation of Indications and Complications for Removal of Implant in Orthopaedic Surgeries done at Tertiary Care Level Centre
Piyush Pawar, Deepak Agrawal
Abstract: Background: Implant removal in orthopaedic surgeries is a frequently encountered procedure, often necessitated by complications or patient discomfort following fracture fixation or joint reconstruction. Understanding the indications and complications associated with implant removal is crucial for improving patient care, surgical outcomes, and resource management. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care centre over two years. It included 113 patients undergoing elective or indicated implant removal surgeries. Data were collected on demographic variables, indications for removal, implant types, complications encountered, surgical factors, and postoperative outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel. Results: The primary indications for implant removal were pain and discomfort (37.5%), prominent hardware (25%), and infection (20.8%). Plates (45.8%) and screws (33.3%) were the most commonly removed implants. The mean surgery duration was 60 minutes, with 83.3% of patients receiving general anaesthesia. Postoperative complications included neurovascular injury (8.3%) and refracture (9.1%). Elderly patients (>60 years) showed a higher incidence of refracture. The average hospital stay ranged from 3 to 5 days, with longer durations associated with infected implants. Conclusion: Implant removal is a multifactorial decision influenced by both clinical and patient - driven factors. Although generally safe, the procedure carries risks such as neurovascular injury and refracture, particularly in elderly patients. Individualized decision - making, adequate surgical planning, and vigilant perioperative management are essential to mitigate risks and improve outcomes.
Keywords: Orthopaedic implants, implant removal, complications, surgical outcomes, tertiary care, hardware - related pain
Edition: Volume 14 Issue 4, April 2025,
Pages: 2015 - 2030