Is it safe for my dog to keep a surgical rod in his leg long-term?

Question

My dog was ran over by a car about a year ago and he had surgery on his leg. The put a rod on the inside of his leg to help the bone grow back together but they never took it out and I’m afraid that he might get an infection or something. The rod has been in there for a while. What do I need to do? I attached pictures of the X-Ray and a picture of my dog. He’s bigger now. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 3 months old | 57 lbs

Makenzie Kurth, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! In general, pins and plates can safely be left in the body indefinitely. There is always a small risk of infection, in which case the pin/plate would be removed. The risk of infection will be present life-long but is less than 5%. If you are worried about it, head into the vet for an x-ray and to discuss if it is worth taking out. (A pin that exits near the surface of the skin can sometimes be removed quickly under sedation.) Best of luck to you and Rocky!

Is it safe for my dog to keep a surgical rod in his leg long-term?

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