Question 1

could a bone shift with a plate screwed into it?

Accepted Answer

Yes: The screws could come loose or the bone may eventually not heal, resulting in breakage of the plate or screws.

Question 2

can screws cause stress risers in bone?

Accepted Answer

Unlikely: Haven't seen a single screw create a problem of a stress riser. More common is the stress riser created from removal of a screw and the remaining defect in the bone before it fills in with new bone.

Question 3

will bones heal after removing the screws and plates?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Are removal or orthopedic fixation devices (eg. Screws/plates), the bones remodel and fill in the defects left by the hardware.

Question 4

how long are the pins and screws used to repair bones last?

Accepted Answer

"Forever": The hardware used to repair bone is usually stainless steel or a titanium alloy. It can last for one’s lifetime. There is one caveat, if a fracture does not heal then the screws, plates, rods, etc., used in fracture fixation can fail, that is, break. Also if the fracture does not heal screws or wires can start to back out and cause some problems that could make it necessary to remove them.

Question 5

is it advisable to remove a screw after the bone has fully healed?

Accepted Answer

Only if painful: If the screw is irritating, then it can be removed, otherwise, avoid the surgery.

Question 6

which complications have resulted from the use of bioabsorbable bone screws?

Accepted Answer

Synovitis: Synovitis and chondrolysis have both been reported. Synovitis is an inflammatory reaction of the synovial tissue in the joint to the bioresorbable implant. Chondrolysis is a more worrisome problem because it is the destruction of the articular cartilage in the joint. This is irreversible and can lead to arthritis. Fortunately, this is a very rare complication, and it is not clear why it happens.

Question 7

what are the pros and cons of having screws and metal plates surgically planted on your bones?

Accepted Answer

Rigid fixation: Not all fractures need fixation with plates and screws. Generally, plates and screws are necessary if a fracture is badly displaced (out of position) and if not fixed with a plate and screws, the fracture still may heal but it may heal in a position that affects the function of the limb or joint. Also, they are often needed to fix fractures involving joint surfaces.

Question 8

how long do bone screws typically last?

Accepted Answer

Forever: Bone screws are either stainless steel or titanium. They do not dissolve or decompose. They can become loose or move however. If you are experiencing discomfort, you need to consult the surgeon who placed them or another orthpaedist. Thanks for trusting HealthTap!

Question 9

sometimes when my boyfriend and i have intercourse he hits a bone. what could it be and why?

Accepted Answer

Probably too deep of: A penetration hitting your tail bone. Just a guess. Try a new position. Just a thought!

Question 10

why shouldn't i walk 1week after geting a bone removed and tendon screwed in?

Accepted Answer

Surgery: You should follow the advice of your surgeon for the best post-op results.

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Doctor answers about:

Can having a screw in your bone make it weaker

A member asked:

Could a bone shift with a plate screwed into it?

A member asked:

Can screws cause stress risers in bone?

A member asked:

Will bones heal after removing the screws and plates?

A member asked:

How long are the pins and screws used to repair bones last?

A member asked:

Is it advisable to remove a screw after the bone has fully healed?

A member asked:

Which complications have resulted from the use of bioabsorbable bone screws?

A member asked:

What are the pros and cons of having screws and metal plates surgically planted on your bones?

A member asked:

How long do bone screws typically last?

A member asked:

Sometimes when my boyfriend and i have intercourse he hits a bone. what could it be and why?

A member asked:

Why shouldn't i walk 1week after geting a bone removed and tendon screwed in?

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