Technical problems and complications in the removal of the less invasive stabilization system.

Abstract This study was designed to evaluate the frequency of intraoperative problems and complications involved with Less Invasive Stabilization System (LISS) plate removal. Retrospective study. Single academic level I trauma center. Medical records were reviewed for demographics, surgical technique, plate length, number and position of screws, time from internal fixation to plate removal, reason for removal, operating time for removal, and perioperative complications. Pre- and post-op radiographs were also reviewed to confirm plate and screw positions. The independent factors including age, sex, plate site, plate screws placed/available holes, union status, and time from internal fixation to removal were compared between patients in whom screw removal was complicated to those in whom screw removal proceeded without difficulty. Mann-Whitney and Fisher Exact tests were calculated with the level of significance at P