Eighteen patients who had had spinal fusion using Harrington rods with
sublaminar wires underwent removal of the implants because of tenderness
over the implants. There were no important complications. At final
follow-up, no patient had a change in neurological function as compared
with the preoperative assessment, and all reported relief of the
preoperative tenderness. We concluded that the removal of rods and
sublaminar wires from patients who have had a spinal fusion is clinically
safe and effective.