Everything you need to know about BUNION Surgery
You’ve noticed a small bump on the outside of your big toe that appears to be growing larger with time.
Does this condition sound similar? Well, it may turn out to be a Bunion.
The size and pain in the bunion can worsen over time, particularly if you don’t take steps to prevent the same from worsening. However, only a doctor’s evaluation can detect whether it’s a bunion and if you need bunion surgery to treat it.
What is exactly a bunion?
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a foot condition in which the base of your big toe protrudes on the inside of your foot, creating a bump-like structure. This bump happens when your foot alignment shifts, causing your big toe to move towards your smaller toes. The pressure from the bump against your shoe, as well as your big toe rubbing against your second toe, can cause pain. Furthermore, pain in the ball of the foot can occur as a result of the big toe’s improper alignment.
Primarily, conservative therapies are used to treat bunions. However, if your bunion pain persists despite these treatments and worsens to the point of immobility, our doctor may recommend surgery.
Our physician Dr KP Meda is a well-known ankle and foot specialist. His patients prefer him for his minimal invasive bunion surgery method and his successful track record of handling several such cases.
Who is an ideal candidate for bunion surgery?
Typically, surgery is only required if your bunion is painful or causing functional issues.
If you are encountering any of the following symptoms, you may be a candidate for bunion removal:
- The big toe leans towards the smaller toes
- Stiff big toe (Hallux Rigidus)
- Pain that disrupts day-to-day activities and life
- Swelling or inflammation in the big toe that persists
What are the different types of bunion surgery?
During your bunion surgery, our surgeon may apply a variety of techniques, including:
BUNIONECTOMY: Our surgeon will cautiously shave off the bunion during this procedure. To reposition the toe, healthcare providers frequently combine this approach with osteotomy. This procedure is only used in minor bunions.
Metatarsal Osteotomy: When a few small incisions in the bones are required to be made by the surgeon. Our surgeon then uses screws or pins to realign your big toe joint. This is the most commonly performed treatment for bunions.
Arthrodesis: Bunions can be caused by arthritis inflammation. During arthrodesis joint fusion, the surgeon removes any arthritis-ridden parts of the big toe joint. After that, screws are inserted into the toe that will hold the bones together while they heal. Remember, this bunion surgery is reserved for the most severe bunions and when the joint shoes arthritis in x-rays.
What happens during minimally invasive bunion surgery?
A few small incisions are made through the skin of the foot (percutaneously) to access the bone around the bunion during minimally invasive bunion surgery. This only cuts across lesser layers of tissue around the bone, causing lesser post-operative pain, a smaller scar, and lesser damage to the surrounding soft tissues.
The primary goals of minimally invasive bunion surgery are to realign the joint, correct the deformity, and relieve pain and discomfort with as few complications as possible.
What is the recovery period like?
Typically, your stitches will be removed about two weeks after surgery. However, it takes approximately six to twelve weeks for your bones to heal. You will almost certainly need to wear a special protective shoe or boot.
During the healing period, you will be unable to bear full weight on your foot. You may require crutches, a scooter, or a walker to move around comfortably. Weight-bearing will be determined by the procedure used to correct your bunion.
You will begin to regain foot function after 6 to 12 weeks. Also, certain physical therapy exercises can help you regain strength and range of motion in your foot.
What about postoperative care?
The following are examples of general postoperative care and instructions:
- For the first 10 days after surgery, keep your foot elevated as much as possible and apply ice as directed to relieve pain and swelling.
- You will need a surgical boot or cast to protect your foot for the first few weeks.
- For added comfort, orthotic supports or insoles are recommended.
- Physical therapy and a well-charted exercise regimen will be implemented gradually to improve the range of motion and strengthen the foot muscles.
- To track your progress, you should keep all scheduled follow-up appointments.
How is minimally invasive bunion surgery better than open surgery?
Due to smaller incisions, minimally invasive bunionectomy results in less pain, a faster recovery, and better cosmetic results. It has also been observed that patients who undergo this procedure require less pain medication. They experience a greater range of motion in their big toe and are able to get back into their regular shoes in half the time that patients who undergo the open technique do.
For how long after the surgery should you avoid activities involving your feet?
For the first two weeks following any foot surgery, patients should stay off their feet and indulge in resting more. It is typical to keep the surgical area elevated 80% of the time during the 1st week and 50% of the time during the 2nd week.
Unless they work from home, most patients take at least two weeks off from work and longer if they must commute by public transportation or drive.
How successful are bunion surgeries?
The vast majority, 95% of patients are extremely pleased with their bunion surgery. The outcomes are very good if the patient carefully follows the post-operative instructions. However, risks like delayed bone healing, recurrence of deformity are possible after any foot surgery, but these are rare incidences. Bleeding, blot clots and anaesthesia risks are also uncommon complications.
Consult Dr KP Meda for a safe and effective bunion surgery procedure
Dr KP Meda is an experienced and skilled surgeon of the highest calibre. His exceptional care and expertise make him stand out from the rest for bunion surgery. By consulting with him, you can be sure that your bunion treatment will be as safe and efficient as possible.
Get rid of the bunion pain and get back on your feet! Book a consultation today!
Who is an ideal candidate for bunion surgery?
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a foot condition in which the base of your big toe protrudes on the inside of your foot, creating a bump-like structure. This bump happens when your foot alignment shifts, causing your big toe to move towards your smaller toes. The pressure from the bump against your shoe, as well as your big toe rubbing against your second toe, can cause pain. Furthermore, pain in the ball of the foot can occur as a result of the big toe’s improper alignment.
Primarily, conservative therapies are used to treat bunions. However, if your bunion pain persists despite these treatments and worsens to the point of immobility, our doctor may recommend surgery.
Our physician Dr KP Meda is a well-known ankle and foot specialist. His patients prefer him for his minimal invasive bunion surgery method and his successful track record of handling several such cases.
