How long should you wait..?

[Lurch the stalker]

As some may recall, I was debating late last year as to whether or not to remove a plate and some screws that had put my clavicle back together.

 

Thanks mostly to BarHugger for putting all sorts of terror into me ( ), I opted to have it removed.

The surgeon took it out last Friday afternoon, and I am booked off this week and next.

 

I haven't spoken with the surgeon about it yet, but, what is a 'normal' sort of time to wait to get back on the bike (not on the IDT, but back out on the road - I accept getting back on the trails will probably need more time).

Obviously I know people heal differently, but, looking for a rough idea of how long to expect.

I wouldn't want to risk pulling the wound open or popping the stitches or anything, but also don't want to be overly cautious as my bikes sit staring longingly at me

[brad890]

The bigger risk would be breaking your clavicle again,

 

With regards to plates and screws, the holes left behind after removal at now a weak point in the bone. That is until they heal closed.

 

If you were one of my furry patients id recommend at least 4-6 weeks rest  , not sure what the equivalent would be in humans.

 

Best to speak to the surgeon who took the plate and screws out.

[Lurch the stalker]

Best to speak to the surgeon who took the plate and screws out.

I'll definitely discuss with the surgeon when I see him for my follow up, was just wondering on a rough idea for timeframe from others who can understand how much I am missing my bike(s)

[IH8MUD]

Lurch.  (sorry a bit  )

 

How long did you wait after getting the plate (after braking the clavicle) to the the hardware taken out again. 

I also want to remove my plate/screws  but the surgeon said I must wait a year minimum.

Did your medial aid cover the operation for the removal?

[Lurch the stalker]

I was also told to wait for a year.

Plate went in on 16 December 2014. When I saw the surgeon in November 2015 he said it could come out, and I was debating whether or not to remove it, plus I had to wait for the new year to have the new sick leave cycle kick in at work so I had enough leave to do it.

 

Medical aid covered the removal. I am with Fedhealth, and they did say that the surgeon isn't one of their partner doctors so they would cover up to their rate for him and I would have to pay anything additional, but fortunately it didn't exceed what they would pay.