Prediger, BarbaraBarbaraPredigerMathes, TimTimMathesProbst, ChristianChristianProbstPieper, DawidDawidPieper2021-10-272021-10-272020https://resolver.sub.uni-goettingen.de/purl?gro-2/92151Osteosynthesis is the internal fixation of fractures or osteotomy by mechanical devices (also called hardware). After bone healing, there are two options: one is to remove the hardware, the other is to leave it in place. The removal of the hardware in patients without medical indication (elective) is controversially discussed. We performed a scoping review to identify evidence on the elective removal of hardware in asymptomatic patients compared to retaining of the hardware to check feasibility of performing a health technology assessment. In addition, we wanted to find out which type of evidence is available.enjournal_article10.1186/s13643-020-01488-233008477