A member asked:

Can titanium rods from a craniocervical fusion ever "pop out" or the screws detatch themselves and eventually have to be removed surgery was six years ago head/neck was hyperextended a bit today severe numb/tingling/painful sensation in back of skull and

4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Carl Spivak answered

Specializes in Orthopedic Spine Surgery

It : It is unusual for the screws to break or pop out 6 years after surgery, but that said your symptoms are very concerning. I would recommend immediately contacting your surgeon about the severe pain, numbness and tingling for x-ray and follow-up. If you can not contact surgeon you should go to the emergency room to be checked out.

Answered 10/3/2016

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Dr. Richard Pollard answered

Specializes in Anesthesiology

Yes: Though rare sometimes the screws can be worked out, or are dislodged. If you experience symptoms you can consult with your surgeon to evaluate your repair.

Answered 4/24/2015

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Yes: Metal fatigues , takes a long time, but can happen, usually a regualr xray will tell, but that doesn'tmean you have to have them removed.

Answered 5/7/2015

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