Bunion Surgery

Bunion surgery, also known as hallux valgus correction, is a surgical procedure used to correct a bunion deformity. A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing pain, redness, and swelling.

Types of Bunion Surgery

• Osteotomy: This involves cutting and realigning the bone to correct the deformity. There are several types of osteotomies, including distal soft tissue procedure, proximal osteotomy, and scarf osteotomy.
• Exostectomy: This involves removing the bony bump (exostosis) that is causing the pain and discomfort.
• Arthrodesis: This involves fusing the joint to eliminate pain and stiffness. This procedure is usually reserved for severe cases of bunions or those that have not responded to other treatments.
• Resection arthroplasty: This involves removing the damaged portion of the joint and replacing it with a prosthetic joint or soft tissue.

Candidates for Bunion Surgery

Bunion surgery is usually recommended for individuals who have tried non-surgical treatments, such as changing their footwear, using orthotics, or taking pain medication, but still experience persistent pain and discomfort. Candidates for bunion surgery typically have:

• Severe bunions that cause significant pain and discomfort
• Bunions that interfere with daily activities, such as walking or exercising
• Bunions that have not responded to non-surgical treatments
• Arthritis or other conditions that affect the joint

Surgical Procedure

The surgical procedure for bunion surgery typically involves:

• Anesthesia: The patient is given local or general anesthesia to numb the area and prevent pain during the procedure.
• Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the skin over the bunion to access the affected joint.
• Bone cutting and realignment: The surgeon cuts and realigns the bone to correct the deformity.
• Soft tissue repair: The surgeon repairs any damaged soft tissues, such as tendons or ligaments.
• Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with bunion surgery, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Nerve damage
• Recurrence of the bunion
• Persistent pain or stiffness

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After bunion surgery, patients typically require several weeks to recover and rehabilitate. The recovery process may involve:

• Pain management: Patients are given pain medication to manage discomfort and pain.
• Immobilization: The foot is immobilized in a cast or splint to allow the bone to heal.
• Physical therapy: Patients undergo physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the foot and ankle.
• Follow-up care: Patients require follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor the healing process and remove any sutures or staples.

Outcomes and Expectations

The outcome of bunion surgery can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the deformity. In general, patients can expect:

• Significant reduction in pain and discomfort
• Improved alignment and appearance of the foot
• Increased mobility and range of motion
• Ability to wear a variety of shoes without discomfort