Regarding post about permanent pins in toes. My wife got (8) about 15 years ago - and has had horrible pain ever since. One pin broke through the side of the bone and skin. Had surgery and her new surgeon cut the bone back as close to the bone as possible, Pins cannot be removed and he said he would never use those pins ever as he is not aware of any successful surgeries with them. If you come up with any information - feel free to reply.