I have a friend who had hardware removal done and she got excellent results. Also, she recovered quickly. She is now recovering from an unusual knee replacement (her third). Many people have a toxic reaction to the metal placed in their body, and this can cause pain. There are blood tests you can have done prior to surgery to see what metals you are allergic to. I know I have a problem with nickel. I am going to be getting a shoulder replacement and possibly disc fusion in my back, so I will be getting that test done. Insurance does not cover the cost.