Complications During Removal of Titanium Implants as Compared with Steel Implants in Children

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine which implants are better to use in the treatment of fractures in childhood. The complications after treatment and during removal of titanium implants compared to steel implants are presented. Materials and Methods: In the time period of 1989-2000, 44 patients aged between 1-16 years were treated with 31 steel and 15 titanium implants which were removed one month to two years later. Results: In ten cases the removal of the titanium implants was difficult, in 8 cases they were covered by new bone formation and in two cases the removal was not possible. Five patients presented with hypertrophic scarring and in further 2 cases a re-fracture occurred without any trauma. The removal of steel implants was difficult but uncomplicated in just three cases. Conclusion: Since titanium implants tend to grow into the children's bone, their use should be reconsidered carefully.

Key words

children's fracture - titanium - steel - complications during metal removal - implants in childhood

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