Surgery Overview
This is general information about bunion surgery and may not apply to a
specific kind of bunion repair.
- There are
many different
types of bunion surgery.
- Bunion
surgery needs to be specific to each person's unique condition.
Bunion surgery generally involves an incision in
the top or side of the big toe joint and the removal or realignment of soft tissue and
bone to relieve pain and restore normal alignment to the joint.
- A regional anesthetic that affects only the foot is commonly used
(rather than a general anesthetic).
- If the
joint is severely deformed, it may be stabilized with tiny wires, stitches, or screws.
- The
procedure usually takes 1 hour or more, depending on what type of surgery is being done.
- Bunion
repairs are usually done on an outpatient basis.
What to Expect After Surgery
The usual recovery period is 6 weeks to 6 months, depending on the
amount of soft tissue and bone affected.
- Stitches are removed after 7 to 21 days.
- The foot
needs to be kept covered while showering or bathing to keep the stitches dry.
- Walking
casts, splints, special shoes, or wooden shoes are sometimes used, depending on the
procedure. Regular shoes can usually be worn in about 4 to 5 weeks, and most activities
can be resumed in about 6 to 8 weeks.
Why It Is Done
Surgery may be considered if:
How Well It Works
After surgery, the person's ability to walk and do other activities
should improve because there will be less pain.
The big toe joint will generally be less painful
and, as a result, may move better. It will also look more normal after the incision has
healed and the swelling has gone down.
If short, tight, or narrow footwear contributed
to the bunion, the person should not expect to be able to go back to wearing that type of
shoe following surgery.
Risks
Risks of
surgery may include:
- Recurrence of the bunion
- The big
toe may bend out or up
- Decreased
feeling or sensation, numbness or tingling, or burning in the toe
- Damage to
the tendons that pull the big toe up or down
- The big
toe may be shorter if bone is removed
- Restricted
movement or stiffness of the big toe joint (may be an expected outcome of some types of
surgery)
- Persistent
pain
- Infection
-
Degenerative joint disease (arthritis) or avascular necrosis (bone "dies"
because blood supply is disrupted) after surgery
What to Think About
Home treatment with roomy shoes may help avoid or delay surgery.
Of course no two people are the same. We would be happy to discuss
your unique foot condition. You can always reach us:
1. Call and talk to a Doctor
2. Send your concerns and questions to us via E-mail
3. Visit and participate in our chat room
4. Arrange for a free in-office consultation. |
