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 INR 50 Thousand – 150 Thousand 0-1 days ~ 2-4 weeks Know More
Turkey TRY 175 Thousand – 525 Thousand 0-1 days ~ 2-4 weeks Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Sarah Miller is a bright and...

Sarah Miller is a bright and active 14-year-old who loves competitive gymnastics. At age 10, she suffered a complex fracture of her right forearm during a fall from the uneven bars, requiring surgery to insert a titanium plate and screws to stabilize the bones. For four years, the plate did its job perfectly, allowing her bones to heal strong. However, as Sarah went through a growth spurt, she began experiencing a persistent, dull ache at the surgical site, especially during intense training. Her pediatric orthopedist, Dr. Chen, explained that the plate, now fixed in a bone that had grown longer, was causing soft tissue irritation. He recommended elective plate removal to relieve her discomfort and prevent potential future issues, allowing her to train pain-free. The surgery was straightforward and outpatient. Sarah was anxious beforehand, worried about more scars and downtime, but the surgical team was reassuring. Recovery involved two weeks in a soft bandage, followed by gradual return to activity. Within six weeks, she was back in the gym, pain-free and with renewed confidence. Emotionally, she moved from apprehension about 'more surgery' to relief and gratitude. Removing the hardware felt like closing the final chapter on her old injury, symbolizing her full recovery and allowing her to focus on her sport without a physical reminder of the past accident.

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
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 23 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata

OPD-desk synced • Updated