Screw Removal from patellar tendon ACL?

I have read some questions you answered about screw removal but they were for hamstring done ACL reconstructions. I had ACL reconstructed about a 1.5 years ago with my patellar tendon used as graph. I was wondering if I would be able to have my screws removed even though I had a patella graph? And if so how long would the recovery be?

Thanks so much for your time!

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Screw Removal from patellar tendon ACL?

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Oct 23, 2008
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screw removal
by: Bart - SII

The screws that are used with a patellar tendon graft ACL reconstruction are not easily removed. They are interference screws, and they are deep inside the bone tunnels. When they place the patellar tendon graft, they put the screws into the tunnels and "wedge" the graft into place. As your knee heals, the bone in the femur and tibia fill in the tunnels and surround the screws.

In order to get to the screws, they would have to dig them out.

Hamstring graft hardware is usually placed into the tibia from the outside, so it is much easier to get to - which is also why they are more likely to cause problems.

Bart

Nov 06, 2008
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ACL screw removal
by: Anonymous

Thank you for answering my intial question about ACL screw removal of a patellar tendon done surgery. I was wondering even though you said it would be difficult if you know if it could be done? And if so what would the recovery process be?

Nov 06, 2008
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screw removal
by: Bart - SII

This is not something that I have any experience with, other than with revision surgeries where the graft had failed. As far as a surgery just to remove the interference screw - they would have to go in and dig the screw out, which would then leave a hole where it was - either to be grafted with bone or left to heal on its own.

Recovery, just my guess, would likely be several weeks to allow the area to heal.

Again, this is just speculation, as I am not a surgeon and have no real experience with this type of procedure.

Bart

Nov 18, 2008
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Question!
by: Vicki

Hello all! Have a similar question....I had the Patellar tendon graft for the ACL in 1994. About 2 weeks ago however my dog (go ahead and laugh!) hit me at a dead run on the outside of the knee. Ortho says that in addition to a meniscus tear, he thinks the femoral screw may have been knocked loose? Anyone heard of anything similar? I was wondering about the repair procedure as well as recovery time. Thanks!!

Nov 19, 2008
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Re: Vicki
by: Bart - SII

I have thoughts of an ACL rupture every time my German Shepard comes at me full tilt - it is definitely not a laughing matter!

As for the femoral screw - it seems odd that it could be knocked loose if it was an interference screw, deep in the bone tunnels of the femur. Especially since your reconstruction was in '94. What led him to the conclusion of the screw being loose? Did they take X-rays?

Repair would likely be dependent upon the status of the ACL. If it was torn, or loose, they would likely opt for a revision reconstruction - time frame would be similar to the first recovery - 6-9 months. If the ACL is intact and stable, they may be able to just remove the screw during the meniscus surgery - 4-6 week recovery.

Bart

Nov 23, 2008
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Screw Removal
by: Vicki

Thanks! I had my MRI on Wed 11/19, and meet with the ortho tomorrow. Will keep you all posted on what the MRI revealed, and the next steps.

-Vicki

Nov 26, 2008
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The Results......
by: Vicki

Ok, got the results of the MRI...no meniscus tear, and ACL graft is ok. (screw issue was miscommunication between Dr and MRI scheduler). Turns out i have Patellar Chondromalacia. At this point, I think we're going to try PT, then doc says if that doesnt help, then we can scope it. Any thoughts? Thanks and have a great Thanksgiving!

Apr 19, 2009
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screw out
by: Anonymous

I had my first screw taken out 4 years after my ACL surgery. Two days ago which is 6 years after ACL surgery I had my femoral screw taken out and a little scope done. I recommend anyone with weird sensation, pain or discomfort to get it done. The first one fixed my problem and I'll keep you posted on this femur screw removal. I think it'll be the answer as I'm still young and very active. My bones have unscrewed these screws so that was my issue.

Jul 08, 2009
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Screw Rmoval and Recovery
by: Diana

Hi All!
thanks so much for this page cause i saw some helpful info. In 7/08 I had a bad fall on NYC's MTA and had to have ACl reconstrcution. I used my own bone which i realize now i shouldnt have.
I have done the therapy and maybe havent pushed myself (at home) as much as i should. Currently bending at 126 degrees..but lots of stiffness and swelling and extreme tenderness on the right side ( botton of knee cap)
I fell again in April and just had a MRI and results are in. Surgeon says i need to get 1 screw removed ( which i have never heard of till now) He said while hes in he will scope and see whats going on.

I am so nervous cause i feel like within ayear i have come such a long way...to have it taken away from me AND Start over!! Ughhh

Surgeon says 1 week recovery from screw removal...
But thsi is the same man who said i can return to work in 4 weeks after ACL...

So nervous...so Stressed...

Anyother hints/advise/ please respond

Jul 09, 2009
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ACL Screw Problems
by: Matt

The firm that I work for is currently investigating several bio absorbable screws that are used in ACL reconstruction surgeries. These screws seem to have a tendency to absorb too early in the body. This early absorption can lead to infection, swelling, soreness, lack of movement, and eventually screw removal and revision. There has already been a worldwide recall of the Smith and Nephew Calaxo Screw that was used in thousands of ACL repair surgeries. If you or someone you know has had these screws implanted, financial comensation could be available for surgery, pain and suffering, subsequent surgeries, and other expenses incurred by this defective product. If you are experiencing a potential screw problem or would like to know more about these screws, please contact me at 713-626-3700. My name is Matt.