Hardware removal is always more difficult than expected especially in children

Description: By Douglas W. Jackson, MD ORTHOPEDICS TODAY 2006; 26:68 May 2006 The indications for “hardware removal� have often seemed somewhat subjective. There are those obvious cases where it presents mechanical symptoms or removal is necessary for another procedure to be done. In addition, surgeons often underestimate the time necessary for the removal and the patient’s return to normal activities. I have asked Dr. William T. Obremskey to share with us some insight into the current indications and potential problems with hardware removal.