@bug3 It was quite a few years ago, but mom had the metal removed by Dr Michael Krnacik in Roseburg, OR. He's done multiple surgeries for many people I've known and all were happy. However, I heard several months ago that he was going to be leaving his practice there. We live in Arizona now, so I'm not sure how true that rumor was since he's still listed on the website. https://www.umpquaorthopedics.com/our-providers/ I hope you find some relief.