Many rumors, outdated ideas, and half-truths circulate in the field of orthopaedic surgery, particularly regarding the use of metal implants. Many people have to make decisions about surgery and, quite often, the chance of getting a metal implant because of an accident, a sports injury, or a condition that worsens over time. It’s only natural that this raises many questions and concerns.
If you are thinking about having surgery, the first thing you should do is talk to a qualified orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore. Not only are these doctors trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems, but they are also trained to help patients understand what surgery entails, including when and why metal implants are used.
We want to bust some myths about metal devices used in orthopaedic surgery, point out some essential facts you should know, and give you tips on how to find the best orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore. We’ll also provide you with valuable information to prepare for your first appointment and offer some helpful insights to help you make informed choices about your health.
What Are Metal Implants and Why Are They Used?
In orthopaedic surgery, metal implants refer to medical-grade devices such as plates, screws, rods, pins, and joint replacements that are surgically placed into the body to support bones, joints, or tissues. These implants help.
- Stabilize broken bones
- Replace damaged joints (like hips or knees)
- Maintain alignment during healing
- Restore mobility after injury
Titanium, stainless steel, and cobalt-chromium metals are all common materials that are carefully made to be strong and biocompatible.
Even though metal implants are helpful, they are often the subject of misunderstanding and myths. Let’s examine a few of these ideas more closely.
Common Myths and Facts About Metal Implants
Myth 1: Metal implants always cause allergic reactions.
Some people are allergic to metals like nickel, but modern orthopaedic implants are made from highly pure, medical-grade metals designed to minimize allergy reactions. Titanium is often used because it is biocompatible. If you have a history of metal allergies, your Singaporean orthopaedic surgeon can arrange allergy tests before surgery and offer alternative materials if necessary.
Myth 2: If you have metal implants, you can’t get through airport security.
Some airport scanners may trigger an alarm when you have metal implants, but this isn’t always the case. Most current detectors are designed not to detect small amounts of metal. If it does happen, notifying security and presenting the medical implant card provided by your surgeon usually resolves the issue quickly.
Myth 3: Metal implants need to be removed after healing.
Metal implants are typically designed to remain in the body permanently and don’t need to be removed unless they cause discomfort, become infected, or interfere with future surgeries. Removing it requires additional surgery and is only done when necessary. Your orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore will look at this on a case-by-case basis.
Myth 4: Implants rust or tear inside the body.
Implants designed for medical use are specifically engineered to resist rusting and remain stable within the body. Titanium, for example, forms an oxide coating that prevents it from rusting and breaking down over time.
Myth 5: Once you have an implant, you can’t live an active life.
Implants are often used to help people resume tasks they perform daily, as well as improve the overall quality of their life experience. After recovering, most people return to walking, working out, and engaging in other daily activities. Often, people who have undergone joint replacement surgery can move around more easily than they could before the procedure.
How to Find the Right Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore
An essential part of your treatment is picking the right orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore. The following steps will help you make a choice.
1. Look Over the Qualifications and Subspecialties
Orthopedics is essential to healthcare. Some specialists specialize in spine surgery, sports injuries, joint replacements, or trauma. Find an experienced doctor who can relate to your case.
2. Consider Hospital or Clinic Affiliation
When it comes to best practices, technology, and safety standards, surgeons working for reputable hospitals or clinics are often more up-to-date. Learn more about their services by consulting phone books or visiting clinic websites, such as this one for an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore.
3. Look for Reviews and Testimonials From Past Patients
Patient satisfaction, professionalism, and follow-up care can all be gleaned from reviews. Although each situation is unique, regular feedback can help you make more informed decisions.
4. Ask About Treatment Philosophy
Some doctors may favor methods that don’t involve surgery more than others, and vice versa. A balanced view that includes food advice, physiotherapy, and (when needed) conservative treatments is usually a good sign.
5. Make Sure They Are Available and Know How to Follow Up
For healing to be effective, regular follow-up is necessary. Pick an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore who gives you a clear plan for keeping track of your progress and who you can reach if anything goes wrong.
How to Prepare for Your First Consultation
Surgery candidates in Singapore may worry about meeting an orthopaedic surgeon for the first time. To run the meeting smoothly, follow these procedures.
1. Gather Your Medical Records
Bring any pertinent X-rays, MRIs, blood test results, or physician referral letters. More information helps your orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore make an accurate diagnosis.
2. List Your Symptoms and History
Write down when the pain started, what makes it worse, and what you’ve tried to treat it so far. Don’t lie about what you do for a living, how often you work out, or your job.
3. Plan Your Questions Ahead of Time
You could ask.
- Do I have to have surgery, or are there other options?
- What are the possible harmful effects of this procedure?
- How will the recovery look?
- Do I need to go to physical training after surgery?
- How long will my implant last?
4. Wear Comfortable Clothes
The surgeon may need to assess your range of motion or the specific area that is causing pain. Clothes that don’t fit too tightly make the process easy.
5. Bring Someone to Help You
Being with a friend or family member can help you remember what was said, ask more questions, or feel better emotionally.
Questions People Ask About Metal Implants in Singapore
Q: Are implants safe for older people?
Yes, age alone is not a barrier. Many older patients undergo successful hip or knee replacements. What matters more is overall health and bone quality.
Q: Can I play sports after getting an implant?
Yes, but depending on the type of implant, you may not be able to participate in high-impact sports. People are usually advised to engage in low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, and cycling.
Q: Will I need physical training after surgery?
Most of the time, yes. Rehabilitation is a crucial component of strengthening, increasing flexibility, and accelerating recovery.
Q: Does Singaporean health insurance cover implants?
Implants and many other surgeries are covered by health insurance or MediSave. However, it’s still a good idea to check with your provider and discuss the cost figures with your clinic.
Last Thoughts
In recent decades, orthopaedic surgery has undergone significant progress. The effectiveness and longevity of modern metal implants have significantly improved over those of their predecessors. I get that people are worried about metal implants, but a lot of the old wives’ tales concerning them have been debunked.
The most effective way to obtain accurate, personalized information tailored to your specific condition is to consult a trusted orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore. Orthopaedic surgery can help people regain their mobility, reduce pain, and generally enjoy life more if they receive the right advice, care, and preparation.
Don’t let fear or false information stop you from getting help for a sports accident, long-term joint pain, or a broken bone. Getting the right help from a specialist can make all the difference.
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Artisan Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic – Dr Puah Ken Lee
290 Orchard Road,
Paragon Medical Centre #07-12
Singapore 238859
https://www.artisanorthopaedics.sg/
Phone: (65) 8909 8877
