The pins and rods, that are used when performing a traumatological operation, are used to hold the pieces of the bone together. Thus, the pieces put pressure on each other which is needed for healing. In most cases, a big percentage of the healing is done within 60 days. However, the bone might still be fragile a long time after that.
Therefore it is recommended to remove the pins and rods only after it is sure that the bone has completely healed and no additional mechanical support is needed. This usually takes 12-18 months to happen as the doctor indicated. After that, the pins and the rods are no longer needed and can be removed.
However, not removing them usually does not cause complications. There are people that live the rest of their life with the pins and rods and no additional complications. How much the removal might cost depends on the health insurance and prices in the particular country. You might want to visit a traumatologist for additional information.
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