Harrington rods

[Billg1964]

Hi  my name is Bill and I had a Harrington rod surgery for scoliosis in 1978  this last November 8th was 32 years and I had back pain the doctor that put the harrington rods in my back  said he put two steel 14 inch rods  and when i had my back  xray this year there was only one shown where did the other rod go to?? I would like to get these rods out  now when i lay on my back it hurts to get up

[cornerthree]

yes, you can have the rods removed! It is called a "hardware removal" surgery and I had it done 15 years ago. It is a great feeling to get the metal out of your back. BTW, it does not matter if the bone has grown over the metal, they can still cut the bone away and take out all the hardware.

[mooksmom]

Maybe you misunderstood the doctor OR he may have accidentally mistold you that he put 2 Harrington rods in, but I know about HRods...they don't undo and migrate. If xrays show only one, there is only one in there. I am doubtful that any orthopedic doc will remove the rod(s) just because you want them remove, as it IS your back/spine. BUT...if you are having pain, and since it's been since 1978, they might do something.