Dr. Timothy K. Durnin - 11/16/2008

Question
I had this operation September 2007, I have now been told I will have to have the screw taken out as I am in a lot of pain. Is this normal and how will it affect my foot?

Answer
Hi Susan,

This is common practice and usually is beneficial to remove anchor screws after the tendonesis heals properly. Leaving the hardware in can lead to considerable discomfort. If you are feeling fine with the metal still in the foot, then I would ask the surgeon what if any other reason would be to remove it. Normally they are left in until the patient complains of discomfort. (This is common) So it is common practice to remove them for this reason. There maybe other issues involved for the follow up procedure, so make sure you bring these questions up with the doctor.


Good Luck!

Dr. Timothy K. Durnin
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Lansingspinaldecompression.com
drs.chiroweb.com