[Is routine implant removal after trauma surgery sensible?]

We present a literature review about implant removal after operative extremity and spine fracture treatment. The indication for implant removal procedures has become less frequent in recent years, but is still more common in Europe than for example in North America. The time required to perform a implant removal can easily exceed the planned amount. Implant removal can result in significant complications like soft tissue damage, fractures, infections, and other problems. Not only because of these problems, the decision on whether or not to remove the implant should be made with great care. Therefore good communication with the patient and thorough information about risks and benefits are essential.