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Removal of plate and screws from tibia fracture
Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: Nov 12, 2025 | Replies (86)Comment receiving replies
I happened upon this site looking for others that have experienced what I am experiencing. On June 17 of this year I fell and broke my tibia. Had two surgeries,
external and internal fixation with Plate and 8 screws. It’s been six months and I am in pain every day. I have what looks like a screw protruding out my leg. I go back to my doctor this week for consult and X-rays. The thought of another surgery is very discouraging and I don’t even know If removal is an option yet but I wanted to see how long your recovery was with the removal and if you are still doing well. Thanks so much for sharing.
Replies to "I happened upon this site looking for others that have experienced what I am experiencing. On..."
Your situation sounds very similar to mine. I broke my tibia exactly a year after you (June 17, 2020) and also had an external fixator before having surgery to have 2 plates and 12 screws put in my leg. I've been in constant pain and my PT doesn't know what else to do, so my surgeon is going to remove my plates and screws next Monday. While I'm scared to have another surgery done, I'm praying this will be the solution to stop the pain! 🙏
Have you been able to get yours removed yet? Hope you're doing better!
@cgavin61
I broke my right tibia 1/19/25 and had surgery on 1/31/25 I have pins protruding out my kneecap and a large plate next to my kneecap which constantly hurts. I have been in Physical Therapy and now transitioned to a Physical Trainer. My Orthopedic doctor said that it is the hardware causing me such pain and can be taken out a year after surgery which is this January. I was worried about the recovery time because I have all steps in my house and 4 dogs 3 large so I can't have that much down time. He told me total recovery time would be about 6 weeks plus I have torn miniscus from surgery which he can fix same time which adds to pain. He said I would be achy for about a month but they get us moving same day and he said my steps shouldn't be a problem for me which I'm hoping is correct. No driving for a week to two depending on how my leg feels. My pain has been awful the pins stick out of my kneecap and the plate rubs on my knee bone as well I'm a thin person so it really bothers me. I did break my ankle on same side 11 years ago both sides and fractured top, the pins and plates again hurt and rubbed on my ankle so had them taken out and wow I was walking and feeling so much better within 2 weeks hope same for this surgery.
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I had Tib Fib Surgery on my Upper Thigh. I fell 4 feet and just killed I. This was on Nov 11. I've seen my surgeon Twice. I'm getting ready to start 45 lb weight bearing on Tuesday.
The edge of the plate is bulging out and is unnerving. It wasn't bothering I think it just freaks me out.
Good luck, please keep us posted.
Susie