Another complication worth noting relates to the mechanical failure of medical equipment. Medical equipment is regularly tested and meets strict standards. Medical equipment problems are extremely rare, however manmade products can fail or malfunction. Most hardware failures after an osteotomy are related to poor healing at the osteotomy site. If hardware failure becomes painful or is associated with an abnormal toe position or function, a repeat operation to remove or replace the hardware may be recommended. Additional steps to help the bone heal are usually performed as well.