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Pain Near MTP Joint Which Was Fused. X-ray Showed Not Fused Joint, Broken Two Screws In The Middle Of Joint. Recommend
I had my right big top MTP joint fused around 2005. All seemed to go well. But quite recently some pain started in this area and when it was X rayed the doctor and his collegue said that the joint had not only not fused but that one of the two screws was completely broken in half right in the middle of the joint. I saw the X ray. It was impressive. I am trying to figure out what went wrong and what to do now?
Any implant (screw) placed in the body acts as an internal splint and provides support till bony union occurs. Once the bony union occurs, there is no purpose served by the screw. Over a period of time, metal fatigue occurs leading to breakage which is considered as normal.
So, there is absolutely nothing to worry. If the broken screws are causing any symptoms, they need to be removed.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement, Dr. Saurabh Gupta's Response
Hello, Thanks for writing to us If screws are broken completely in middle and giving problem, it should be removed. Repeat arthodesis(fusion of joint) might be considered. Consult your orthopaedician for the same. I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query.
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Pain Near MTP Joint Which Was Fused. X-ray Showed Not Fused Joint, Broken Two Screws In The Middle Of Joint. Recommend
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. Any implant (screw) placed in the body acts as an internal splint and provides support till bony union occurs. Once the bony union occurs, there is no purpose served by the screw. Over a period of time, metal fatigue occurs leading to breakage which is considered as normal. So, there is absolutely nothing to worry. If the broken screws are causing any symptoms, they need to be removed. Hope this information is helpful. Good day