Can Removal Of Plates From Arm Bring Back The Arm To Normal?

My husband has gone through a surgery on Dec 2nd 2010. Two plates of 8 holes of about 4-5 inches long were inserted in his right arm. The plate is piercing inside still and hence the Dr. has said that the plate has to be removed some time in May. How safe is it and what are the after effects like how long will be the surgery and how long he has to take rest, and what time it would take for him to use his right hand as normal.