Learn about Plate Removal Surgery Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Plate Removal Surgery and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Plate Removal Surgery

Plate removal surgery in pediatric orthopedics is a secondary surgical procedure performed to remove internal fixation hardware, such as plates and screws, that were previously implanted to stabilize a bone fracture during healing. This elective surgery is typically considered once the bone has fully consolidated, which is confirmed via X-ray, usually 6-18 months after the initial fixation. The procedure involves making an incision over the original surgical site, carefully dissecting tissue to expose the hardware, and then unscrewing and extracting the plate. It is often recommended in children to prevent potential long-term complications like growth plate disturbance, implant irritation, or stress shielding of the bone. The surgery is generally straightforward, with a focus on minimizing new trauma to the growing bone and surrounding tissues.

Key Highlights

    Prevents long-term complications like implant irritation or stress on growing bones.Elective procedure with a typically straightforward surgical approach.Minimizes risk of growth plate disturbance in children.Can alleviate discomfort caused by prominent hardware under the skin.Allows for more normal bone remodeling and strength development.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Complete healing of the original fracture, confirmed radiologically.
  • Persistent pain, discomfort, or irritation at the implant site.
  • Prominent hardware causing skin irritation or limiting activity.
  • Planned removal to avoid potential interference with bone growth (epiphysiodesis).
  • Infection associated with the hardware (though this is less common).
  • Patient or family request after the orthopedic surgeon's recommendation.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive pre-operative consultation with the pediatric orthopedic surgeon.
  • Recent X-rays to confirm complete bone union and plan the surgical approach.
  • Review of the child's full medical history and any allergies.
  • Pre-operative blood tests as required by the hospital or surgeon.
  • Fasting for 6-8 hours before the scheduled surgery time.
  • Discussion of anesthesia (typically general) with the anesthesiologist.

Risks & possible complications

  • Standard surgical risks: infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
  • Nerve or blood vessel damage near the surgical site.
  • Fracture at a screw hole (stress riser) shortly after plate removal.
  • Incomplete removal of hardware or broken screw.
  • Scarring or keloid formation at the incision site.
  • Recurrence of pain or stiffness, though often temporary.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital stay is usually short, often same-day discharge or one overnight.
  • The limb may be placed in a soft bandage or splint for initial comfort.
  • Pain is managed with prescribed medications.
  • Stitches or staples are removed 10-14 days post-surgery.
  • Light activities can be resumed quickly, but contact sports or heavy lifting are restricted for 4-6 weeks.
  • Follow-up X-rays may be taken to ensure bone integrity.
  • Full recovery and return to all normal activities typically occurs within a few weeks.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 2-4 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering plate removal surgery in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for plate removal surgery compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 544 – USD 1,632 0-1 days ~ 2-4 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 4,026 – USD 12,079 0-1 days ~ 2-4 weeks Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow...

Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow in a playground fall, and Dr. Prashanth Inna was absolutely phenomenal. He explained the complex procedure in simple terms, calmed our nerves, and the minimally invasive surgery went perfectly. His follow-up care was thorough, and she's now back to gymnastics without any issues!

Pediatric Orthopedics for Plate Removal Surgery

Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform plate removal surgery and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 15 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

OPD-desk synced • Updated