Not to replay a broken record, but as I'm sure many of you are aware I sustained serious injuries in a SMIDSY in 2012. I have had a gamma nail and screws in my left femur, and have just had a second operation to put artificial ligaments in my knee. The first consultant said it's not advisable to ride with the gamma nail in place, and I should not ride again unless it's removed. Upon seeing the knee consultant today I asked about being referred for the nail removal. The second consultant said there is no real reason to not ride with the gamma nail, as removing it would be a higher risk than leaving it in, as well as the factor of it giving strength to the femur. What would you do if it were you, have it removed (leaving a weaker leg) or leave it in, and hope nothing really major happens. The second consultant said that whilst an accident big enough to bend the rod would be a problem, it's highly unlikely an accident of that magnitude would be survivable, so it's a moot point... What would you do?
go with the advise that suits you best, or buy some of yon nonails. (forgive my childish sense of humor)
Is this a for the rest of your life type dilemma, or just a short term thing.? If its only short term and you know, legs are kinda important, i'd play it safe, but if its a case of never riding again, then only you know if riding is worth more than potentially not walking properly again
After all the pain you have had perhaps you do not want the trauma and risk of another op,this time to remove the nail which is in place.As always we risk ourselves when we go out on our bikes. Perhaps get yourself as fit as you can first and then review what you would like to do for your future. Our lives are full of change,some forced on us and some we choose ourselves.Hope you manage to see your way forward and whatever you choose will be right for you.
Looks like you have two consultants who take a diametrically opposite view on risk, the second sounds more like my kind of guy. If I felt the need I would probably do it. You have summed up the options, only you can make the choice. However it doesn't have to be all or nothing, you can be selective about how, where and when you choose to ride.
Is the metal in your leg well-positioned and comfortable? Could it stay in indefinitely without ill effects? Or is there a risk of the metal coming loose, getting infected, or interfering with adjoining tissues (e.g. muscles, nerves, blood vessels, tendons)? Try this for an approach: * If the metal is causing or likely to cause problems in future, get it removed. * If the metal is fine and could stay in indefinitely, leave it alone.
I don't suppose it helps but I have had a plated left wrist since 1996. I see no need to remove the plate. The consultant said it was up to me, he had no opinion either way. I have the odd twinge from the wrist but that's as likely to be the result of the damage I did to it as it is the metal left in place. Based upon my experience, leave the metal in there. As for the risk arising from a major accident - something awful could happen, with or without the metalwork so leave it in there. Just my two cents, based upon nothing than my own opinion. You have to decide for yourself. Either way, I hope for the best long term recovery outcome possible for you, Phil
Hi Pete, Yes, it's comparatively comfortable, any discomfort stems from the soft tissue damage as opposed to the bony injuries. It could stay in permanently, there is a minor chance of the screws coming loose, but this tends to be very early on - that risk is largely passed now. Thanks for the replies everyone, I've given it consideration and think the rod will stay in. I'm aiming to be back on the bike at Easter 2015
enjoy life while you can dont be a spectator and watch life go by i had 2 operations on my left knee around 2 years ago told i would not have a normal usable leg but usable told i would probably not ride again .........red rag to a bull blah blah so started looking for a bike........ well the rest is history i aint dead yet
Since you've got two diametrically opposed professional opinons, I might look around for a third one from the most eminent expert you can find to tip the balance one way or the other. Alternatively, you might just say "sod it - life's too short" and take your chances. Good luck with it!
alright just spoke to surgeon mate. i couldn't find the thread when he was in. but he suggest leaving all pins in unless they are causing a problem. if you are worried about a pin bending due to impact worry no more. first words out off his mouth where specialist is looking for some over time. but he hasent seen your notes so wont commit. i am lead to believe he is one of the more respected dudes on the ward.
