[Removal of osteosynthesis material : a surgery not to be underestimated].

Hardware removal is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in orthopedic practice. It has a wide range of indications and is not limited to simple discomfort related to the hardware or pain. Contrary to popular belief, it is not always a simple surgery, free of complications. Before an indication is given for such a procedure, the benefit-risk balance must be assessed by an orthopedic surgeon, considering various factors such as the patient's specific characteristics, the type of fracture and its location and the hardware used.