Practice Plus Group offers private removal of internal fixation which is a surgical procedure to remove metalwork, such as plates, screws, pins or rods, that were previously used to hold broken bone in place while healing occurs. It is available at selected Practice Plus Group Hospital locations via self-pay, private medical insurance, or NHS.
Waiting times: typically under 4 weeks*
Cost: £3,249
Ways to pay: self-pay, insured, payment plans, NHS
Private removal of internal fixation waiting times
At Practice Plus Group, the average waiting time is 4-6 weeks from booking enquiry to having your surgery. We also understand that it’s not just about how quickly you can have surgery, but having your treatment at a time that works for you. We’ll work with you to arrange your surgery around your needs and availability, so you can plan your treatment with confidence.
Removal of internal fixation
If you have metal plates, screws or other fixation devices following a previous operation, you may sometimes need surgery to have them removed. Removal of internal fixation, also known as metalwork removal surgery, is a procedure to take out metal implants that were used to support or stabilise a bone.
At Practice Plus Group, we offer orthopaedic treatments to help you manage discomfort and other problems associated with previous surgery. If your internal fixation is causing problems, your consultant can assess your symptoms and discuss whether removal surgery may be suitable for you.
What is removal of internal fixation?
Internal fixation is a technique used during orthopaedic surgery to hold broken bones in the correct position while they heal. It involves using medical implants, such as metal plates, screws, pins, wires or rods, to stabilise the bone.
Once the bone has healed, this metalwork can often remain in place permanently without causing problems. However, in some cases, it can cause discomfort, irritation or other complications.
Removal of internal fixation is a surgical procedure to remove some or all of these implants. It may also be called removal of metalwork, metal implant removal or plate and screw removal surgery.
Whether you need metalwork removal depends on your symptoms, the location of the implants and your individual circumstances. Your consultant will assess your condition and explain the most appropriate options.
Who is metalwork removal surgery for?
Metalwork is designed to support the bone during healing and does not always need to be removed. However, your consultant may recommend removal surgery for several reasons.
Pain or discomfort – Metal plates, screws or other implants may cause persistent discomfort, particularly if they sit close to the skin or rub against surrounding tissues.
Irritation during everyday activities – Prominent metalwork can sometimes cause irritation when walking, exercising, wearing shoes or carrying out other daily activities.
Restricted movement – Depending on its location, metalwork may contribute to discomfort or restricted movement.
Infection – If an infection develops around the implant, treatment may involve removing the metalwork alongside other measures, depending on the circumstances.
Other clinical reasons – Your consultant may recommend removal if there are concerns about the position or condition of the implant, or for another specific medical reason.
Removal is not always necessary, even when metalwork can be felt beneath the skin. Your consultant will explain the potential benefits and risks of surgery and whether leaving the implant in place is a reasonable alternative.
Check if we acceptyour insurer
How to get started
1
Get referred – Ask your GP to refer you to us.
2
Confirm cover – Contact your insurer to check your cover.
3
Get authorisation – Ask your insurer for a code.
4
Get booked in – Contact us to book your consultation.
What are the benefits of metalwork removal?
The potential benefits of removal of internal fixation depend on why the procedure is being considered.
Relief from discomfort
If the metalwork is contributing to pain or irritation, removing it may help reduce these symptoms.
Less irritation during daily activities
Removing prominent implants may help reduce rubbing or pressure on surrounding tissues, including irritation caused by footwear or movement.
Treatment of certain implant-related problems
Where metalwork is contributing to an infection or another complication, removal may form part of the treatment plan.
A personalised approach to your recovery
Your consultant will consider your symptoms, the original injury or operation and your current needs when deciding whether removal surgery may help.
It is important to understand that removal of metalwork does not guarantee that pain will disappear. Discomfort can sometimes continue because of the original injury, scar tissue or another underlying condition.
Thinking about going private?
Avoid long waiting lists. Book a private consultation today for £145.
How is removal of internal fixation surgery performed?
The procedure will depend on the type of metalwork being removed, its location and how easily it can be accessed.
1. Consultation and assessment – Your consultant will discuss your symptoms, previous surgery and medical history. You may need an examination and imaging, such as X-rays, to assess the position of the implants and confirm whether the bone has healed sufficiently for removal.
2. Anaesthesia – The operation is performed using an appropriate form of anaesthesia. This may be general anaesthesia, where you are asleep, or regional or local anaesthesia in selected cases. Your surgical team will discuss the most suitable option for you.
3. Accessing the metalwork – The surgeon makes an incision to reach the implant. Where possible, the original surgical scar may be used, although another incision may sometimes be necessary.
4. Removing the implant – The surgeon carefully removes the relevant plates, screws, pins or other fixation devices. The procedure may be more complex if the metalwork is deeply embedded, difficult to access or damaged.
5. Closing the wound – Once the necessary metalwork has been removed, the incision is closed and covered with a dressing. You will then be monitored as you recover from the procedure.
Removal of internal fixation is often performed as day surgery, meaning you may be able to go home on the same day. However, this depends on the complexity of the operation, your health and your recovery immediately afterwards.
Your consultant will explain what to expect before your procedure, including any specific preparation or aftercare requirements.
Side effects and risks of metalwork removal?
As with any operation, removal of internal fixation carries potential risks and side effects. These vary depending on the location and type of metalwork, the complexity of the procedure and your general health.
Possible risks include:
Pain and swelling: Discomfort, bruising and swelling around the surgical site are common during the initial recovery period.
Bleeding: Some bleeding can occur during or after the procedure.
Infection: The wound or deeper tissues may become infected and require treatment.
Scarring: Surgery will leave a scar, which may be sensitive, raised or slow to heal.
Nerve or blood vessel damage: Nearby nerves or blood vessels may be damaged, potentially causing numbness, altered sensation or other complications.
Difficulty removing the metalwork: Implants may be difficult to remove if they have become embedded in bone, damaged or broken. Occasionally, some metalwork may need to be left in place.
Bone fracture or weakening: Removing screws or other implants can leave the bone temporarily more vulnerable to fracture. Rarely, a bone may break during or after surgery.
Persistent pain: Symptoms may not improve if the discomfort is caused by something other than the metalwork.
Blood clots: Surgery can increase the risk of a blood clot developing in a vein.
There may also be risks associated with the anaesthetic or other aspects of your procedure.
Your consultant will explain the risks relevant to your individual circumstances, as well as the potential benefits and alternatives, before you decide whether to proceed.
How long is recovery from metalwork removal surgery?
Recovery after removal of internal fixation varies according to the location of the metalwork, the extent of the surgery and your general health.
Many procedures are performed as day surgery, so you may be able to return home on the same day. You will receive advice on managing discomfort, caring for your wound and gradually returning to your usual activities.
You may experience some pain, bruising and swelling around the surgical site. Rest, appropriate pain relief and following your wound care instructions can help support your recovery.
As your wound heals, you can usually begin gradually increasing your activity, following your consultant’s advice. You may need crutches or other support, depending on the location of the surgery.
The time needed to return to work, driving, exercise and sport will depend on the operation you have had and the demands of your daily activities. You may need to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise or high-impact activities while the bone and surrounding tissues recover.
Your consultant will advise when it is safe to resume these activities. The bone may be temporarily weaker after metalwork removal, so it is important not to increase activity too quickly.
Although the initial recovery may take a few weeks, complete healing can take longer. Your recovery plan will be tailored to your procedure and individual needs.
How can I access removal of internal fixation at Practice Plus Group?
At Practice Plus Group, we want to help you understand your treatment options and find a suitable way to access the care you need.
Depending on your circumstances, removal of internal fixation may be available through different funding routes.
Ways to pay
There are 3 ways to access knee replacement at Practice Plus Group:
At Practice Plus Group Hospitals, we’re passionate about giving patients a positive experience and excellent clinical outcomes, with personalised care every step of the way. Whether you’re paying for yourself or using private medical insurance, with our short waiting times, unrivalled Care Quality Commission (CQC) ratings and high levels of cleanliness and infection control, we’ll make sure you’re looked after. In fact, we were the first provider to have all services rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC.
Still weighing it up?
Our Private Patient team will talk you through timings, prices and our locations, so you know exactly what you’re getting before you decide – there’s never any pressure to book.
