The intramedullary nails used after limb lengthening surgery provide important support in the processes of bone elongation and healing.
Removal of the nails after the bones have fully healed is generally an optional procedure and may be necessary in some cases.
Below is the comprehensive information about the nail removal after limb lengthening surgery with a detailed guide.
When is the Nail Removal Necessary?
- After the Bone Has Fully Healed: Bone healing usually takes 12-18 months. At the end of this period, the nails can be removed under the doctor’s supervision.
- Patient Discomfort: Some patients may feel discomfort due to the presence of the nails. In this case, removal may be recommended.
- The Impact of the Nail on Health: Since the nails are made of biocompatible (titanium) materials, they can mostly be left in the body without issue. However, in rare cases of allergic reactions or mechanical discomfort, they need to be removed.
The Process of the Nail Removal Procedure
- Planning and Evaluation: The necessity for nail removal is determined based on the X-ray and examination results performed by the doctor. A fully healed bone and a healthy recovery process are prerequisites.
- Surgical Procedure: The removal of the nail is generally a procedure performed under general anesthesia and takes 1.5-2 hours. After the surgery, the patient is observed in the hospital for a short period.
- Recovery Period: After the nail removal surgery, the use of crutches is generally recommended for 2-3 weeks. A return to full activity may occur within 4-6 weeks.
Should the Nails Be Removed?
- Leaving the Nail Permanently:
– Since the nails are made from materials compatible with the body (generally titanium), they can remain for life.
– Not removing the nails generally does not cause any additional health risk.
- Removing the Nails:
– Due to aesthetic or personal preference reasons.
– Due to pain, discomfort, or psychological factors related to the presence of the nails.
What Should Be Considered After the Nails Are Removed?
- Physical Therapy: After the surgery, physical therapy is recommended to regain the mobility of the muscles and joints.
- Rest and Care: In the first weeks, intense physical activities should be avoided, and wound care should be performed carefully.
- Regular Check-ups: The healing process should be monitored with follow-ups by the doctor.
The Cost of Nail Removal
- In Turkey, the cost of the nail removal procedure after limb lengthening surgery generally ranges between 4,800 – 11,000 USD. This price may vary depending on the method used and hospital services. To get an exact price, please provide us with more information about your condition.
After limb lengthening surgery, nail removal is generally a complication-free process and can increase patient comfort with proper planning. It is important to consult an expert surgeon for detailed information on this matter.
Precice and Lon Methods: Intramedullary Nail Removal Guide
In limb lengthening surgeries, the Precice and LON methods are performed with support provided by nails inside the bone. These nails play an important role in the bone healing process. After full healing is achieved, the removal of the nails is an elective procedure, although in some cases it may become necessary. Below, the nail removal process in both methods is detailed.
Intramedullary Nail Removal in the Precice Method
Features of the Precice Nails
- The Precice method is performed in a minimally invasive manner using completely internally placed intramedullary nails.
- The nails are designed to provide a daily lengthening of 0.99 mm with a magnetic control device.
Removal Timing
- Bone Healing Time: The complete healing of the bone is generally achieved between 12-15 months. At the end of this period, the nails can be removed.
- Doctor’s Recommendation: Before the nails are removed, it is confirmed by X-ray and examination that the bone has fully healed.
Surgical Procedure
- Anesthesia: It is performed under general anesthesia.
- Surgical Procedure: The nails inside the bone are removed using special surgical instruments. The procedure generally lasts 1.5-2 hours.
- Hospital Stay: The patient is observed in the hospital for 1-2 days after the operation.
Recovery Process
- After the surgery, assisted walking (with crutches) is generally recommended for 1-2 weeks.
- The patient may return to full mobility within 2-4 weeks.
Advantages and Disadvantages
- Advantage: When the nails are removed, any discomfort or potential mechanical complications are completely eliminated.
- Disadvantage: The removal procedure requires an additional surgery and the recovery process is somewhat prolonged.
Intramedullary Nail Removal in the LON Method
Features of the LON Method Nails
- In the LON method, in addition to external fixators, intramedullary nails are placed inside the bone.
- The nails provide support during the bone healing process after the external fixators are removed.
Removal Timing
- Bone Healing Time: The bone healing process takes approximately 12-18 months. After this period, the intramedullary nails can be removed.
- Patient Preference: Some patients may prefer to keep the nails. However, removal is recommended in cases of mechanical discomfort.
Surgical Procedure
- Planning: The doctor evaluates the bone healing status with X-rays and examination.
- Surgery Process: The intramedullary nails are removed through an operation lasting approximately 1.5-2 hours under general anesthesia.
- Hospital Stay: After the operation, the patient is generally kept under observation in the hospital for 1-2 days.
Recovery Process
- Assisted walking with crutches is recommended for the first 1-2 weeks.
- Within 2-4 weeks, the patient can fully return to daily activities.
Advantages and Disadvantages
- Advantage: The removal of the nails eliminates any discomfort in the leg.
- Disadvantage: It requires an additional surgical procedure and creates a recovery period, even if brief.
Conclusion
In both the Precice and LON methods, the removal of the intramedullary nails is an elective procedure that increases patient comfort. In both methods, a short recovery period is required after the procedure. With evaluation by an expert surgeon and proper planning, this process can be managed safely and smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I had surgery elsewhere but can I have my intramedullary nails removed in Turkey?
Yes, even if you had your surgery in another country or with another doctor, you can have your intramedullary nails removed at our center in Turkey. For this process, our doctor evaluates your X-ray films and current health status to create a detailed plan. Depending on the type of nail, removal is generally possible. If there is any possibility of complications, this will be explained to you in detail and alternative solutions will be offered.
Which types of nails can be removed? (Betzbone, Guichet Nail, ISKD, MTN, etc.)
Our doctor is an expert in removing different types of nails such as Precice, Combined (LON), Betzbone, Guichet Nail, ISKD, and MTN. In the first step, your nail type and the condition of your bone are evaluated. Based on the X-ray results, the removability of the nail is determined. If any difficulty is anticipated, solution options are considered and the procedure is safely applied.
Why might intramedullary nail removal be necessary?
- Discomfort: Some patients may experience pain or discomfort due to the presence of the nails.
- Aesthetic Reasons: Removal of the nails can alleviate psychological or aesthetic concerns in some patients.
- Mechanical Issues: Rarely, mechanical problems may occur with the nails, in which case removal may be necessary.
- Doctor’s Recommendation: When the bone healing process is complete, your doctor may recommend the removal of the nails.
When should the nails be removed?
Intramedullary nail removal is generally performed after the bone healing process is complete, that is, approximately 12-18 months after the surgery. However, since each patient’s condition is different, the process is planned individually.
How long does it take to recover after the nails are removed?
After nail removal, assisted walking usually takes 1-2 weeks. Full recovery occurs in most patients within 2-4 weeks. During this period, physical activities are gradually increased.
I live outside of Turkey, how does the process work?
We offer a special service process for our patients living outside of Turkey. We provide support in your native language. After you send us your X-ray films, our doctor plans your treatment. Then, a necessary date for your surgery is determined. When you arrive in Istanbul, we guide you with VIP transfer and comfortable accommodation facilities. We remain in regular contact with you throughout your recovery process after nail removal and provide support.
Are there risks during the nail removal procedure?
Intramedullary nail removal is generally a safe procedure. However, as with every surgical procedure, minimal risks may exist. These risks are thoroughly evaluated by our experienced doctors and minimized. Possible complications (delayed bone healing, infection) are rarely seen and are effectively managed.
Can I return to sports after the nails are removed?
Yes, after complete recovery following nail removal, you can return to sports activities. Low-intensity activities are recommended for the first 4-6 weeks. For heavy sports and intense exercise, it is advised to wait 8-10 weeks.
What should I be careful about after intramedullary nail removal?
- Rest: Limit your physical activities for the first few weeks.
- Physical Therapy: Continue regular physical therapy to strengthen your muscles and increase joint mobility.
- Doctor Check-ups: Do not skip your doctor’s appointments to closely monitor your recovery process.
Can the nails remain in the body without being removed?
Yes, because the nails are made of biocompatible titanium, they can remain in the body. However, if they do not cause any discomfort and the doctor does not detect any problem, removal is not necessary.
Why Should You Choose Us?
- Expert Team: Our experienced surgeons have a high success rate in nail removal procedures.
- Comprehensive Service: We are with you every step of the way with airport transfer, comfortable accommodation, postoperative physical therapy, and follow-up services.
- Reliable Technology: Our center has the necessary technological infrastructure to safely perform procedures related to modern nails such as Precice, Betzbone, and ISKD. We work with hospitals that have quality standards such as JCI, EFQM, etc.
- International Support: For our patients coming from abroad, we offer a professional service network to facilitate the entire process in your native language.
We are here to answer all your questions regarding the nail removal procedure at our center and to support you. You can contact us for a health and comfort-focused experience!
Phone & Whatsapp: +905319883090
Email: support@wannabetaller.com
Instagram: @wannabetaller
