Removal of sublaminar wires after spinal fusion
Olson, S.A.; Gaines, R.W.
Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume 69(9): 1419-1423
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-9355 PMID: 3440800 Document Number: 299659
Eighteen patients who had had spinal fusion using Harrington rods with sublaminar wires underwent removal of the implants because of tenderness over the implants. There were no important complications. At final follow-up, no patient had a change in neurological function as compared with the preoperative assessment, and all reported relief of the preoperative tenderness. We concluded that the removal of rods and sublaminar wires from patients who have had a spinal fusion is clinically safe and effective.