Bunion surgery, often referred to as bunionectomy is a method to fix bunions. There are several kinds of bunion surgeries. They typically require repositioning of the big toe for pain relief and to improve the function of the toe.
A bunion is what it sounds like.
A bunion, also called hallux valgus is a bony bump that is located on the part of the toe’s big joint. The bumps are located along the outside of your foot. They are visible in that joint in which the foot is joined to the heel, which is known as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.
What are the various types of surgery for bunion?
Your surgeon may use a few different techniques during your bunion surgery, including:
- Exostectomy When you undergo this operation the surgeon cuts away the bunion. Most often, medical professionals employ this method in conjunction with osteotomy in order to adjust the toe. The procedure is seldom performed and is only performed in the case of minor bunions.
- OsteotomyYour doctor makes few tiny incisions inside the bones. The surgeon then uses pins or screws to align the major toe joint. It is by far the most frequently used procedure for bunions.
- arthrodesisSometimes it is the case that arthritis-related inflammation may cause bunions. Arthrodesis joint fusion is when the surgeon will remove any part in the joint of the toe that are suffering from arthritis. The surgeon will then place screws into the toe joint in order to keep the bones in place as they heal. This procedure is only carried out for the most serious of bunions.
Who is eligible for bunion surgery?
Most of the time, you’ll only need surgery when your bunion is in pain or is causing problems for your functional. You could qualify for bunion surgery in the event that you are suffering from:
- A big toe that is drifting towards small toes.
- Hallux rigidus, also known as a big toe that is stiff.
- The pain can interfere with your everyday activities.
- The swelling and inflammation of the big toe that won’t disappear.
What happens prior to bunion surgery?
Before your surgery the surgeon and you can discuss the health of your body, exercise levels, and other factors that might influence the recovery process. Your surgeon will take these details to determine the best surgical option for you. When you are scheduled for the appointment doctor will require you to be 2 to 3 hours prior to your scheduled time. In general, surgeons conduct bunion surgery using local anesthesia (numbing substance that is placed in the area of the foot) along with an anesthesia that is monitored and light that ensures you are comfortable throughout the procedure. Typically , intubation (breathing tube) and a strong anesthesia are not necessary for this kind of procedure.
What happens during bunion surgery?
For the majority of bunion surgery, your surgeon will make a small cut along the big toe joint. Your surgeon then repositions your toe’s big one. The surgeon can be able to realign the tendons or ligaments that surround your toe joint.
Typically, your surgeon places your toe with:
- Metal plates.
- Small screws.
- Wires.
Your surgeon stitches and bandsages on your toe to aid in helping the healing process go smoothly. The entire procedure can take between 45 minutes and 3 hours based upon the extent of bunion as well as the procedures that need to be done to correct it.
What happens after bunion surgery?
Surgery for a Bunion is performed as an outpatient which means you are able to return home the next day. After the procedure, you’ll be in a recovery area for a period of one to two hours before your surgeon has determined that you are able to go home. You’ll have to ask for someone to transport you back home. In the course of your recovery at home, your doctor will tell you to:
- Do not put too much too much weight on your big toe.
- Lift your foot to decrease swelling.
- Make sure your bandages and wounds are dry.
- Utilize pain medication as prescribed. (Antibiotics are not usually required during this type of operation outside of an operating room.)
For the first two weeks following surgery, you might need someone to help prepare meals or help with household chores.
What are the benefits associated with bunion surgical procedures?
Many people who undergo surgery to correct a bunion will experience significant relief from pain when they heal. The procedure will also improve the alignment of the big toe. The improvement in the alignment of your big toe can allow you to move more comfortably.
What are the potential risks or complications associated with bunion surgery?
The risks that could be that can be posed by bunion surgery are:
- Bunion Recurrence (coming to).
- Incessant pain or stiffness.
- Inflammation or infection.
- Nerve damage.
- Wound-healing problems.
The doctor will talk about the risks associated with surgical bunion removal with you. Bunion surgery complications are very rare and are usually manageable. If you experience complications, recovery could be longer than you expected.
What is the estimated time for recovery?
Typically, you’ll get the stitches removed about two weeks after the surgery. It can take between six and 12 weeks to heal your bones. It’s likely you’ll need to wear a boot or shoe.
During this period of healing it is possible that you will not be in a position to put all you weight onto your feet. In order to move with ease you might need to make use of crutches, a scooter or a walking aid. The weight bearing capacity will be determined by the kind of procedure being performed to fix your bunion.
In the space of six up to twelve weeks you’ll be able to return to normal the function of your feet. Certain exercises in physical therapy aid in restoring the strength of your foot and its mobility. You are able to resume your normal activities after three months. However, swelling could last between six and nine months following surgery.
To make sure the foot is healed correctly You will have to consult your doctor for scheduled post-op visits after the surgery.
When should I consult my doctor regarding the bunion?
Consult bunion surgery in Perth when your bunion is causing pain or hinders walking. A bunion surgery can help those who suffer from painful bunions to become active.
How can I stop bunions from resurfacing following surgery?
If you have had bunion surgery you are able to do things to prevent bunions from recurring. One of the main reasons for bunions is wearing narrow-fitting footwear. Be aware that wearing an overly tight shoe can result in bunions returning.
Furthermore, an orthotic could help in preventing recurrence in cases where the root of the bunion in the first place was pronated (flatter) kind of foot.
It could also be beneficial when the equinus (tight muscles of the calf) is the root of the bunion.
A note from the Advanced Foot Surgery Clinic
Your doctor may suggest bunion surgery if your feet have uncomfortable, bumpy, painful bumps known as bunions. The procedure of removing bunions will reduce pain and help you recover your foot’s functionality. Many people who undergo bunion surgery recover well . They are able to resume normal activities within six to twelve weeks.
