Overview

The Procedure is Called Bunion Surgery.

Bunion surgery, also known as bunionectomy, is a method to fix bunions. There are several kinds that Bunion surgical procedures. The majority of them require repositioning of the big toe in order to ease pain and increase functionality.

How Do You Define a Bunion?

A bunion, also called hallux valgus, refers to a bony bump that is located on the right side of the joint between your big and little toes. The bumps are located along the outside on the outside of the toe. They can be seen in that joint in which the foot joins the foot, referred to as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.

What are the Different Types that Bunion Surgeries That Can Be Performed?

Your surgeon may use a few different techniques during your bunion surgery, including:

Exostectomy In this procedure your surgeon will shave off your bunion. In many cases, doctors use this technique in conjunction with osteotomy to move the toe. This procedure is not often performed and only in the most minor bunions.

Osteotomy, Your Foot surgeon makes tiny incisions into the bones. The surgeon then uses pins or screws to reposition the major toe joint. It is by far the most frequently used procedure for bunions.

Arthrodesis, sometimes it is the case that arthritis-related inflammation can cause bunions. Arthrodesis joint fusion is when your surgeon can remove any areas that are part of your big toe joint that have arthritis. The surgeon will then place screws inside the toe for the purpose of holding the bones together until they heal. This procedure is only performed by a specialist who has the highest severity of bunions.

Who Should Undergo Bunion Surgery?

Most of the time, you'll only need Surgery to treat a bunion that is painful or causing functional issues. You could qualify for Bunion Surgery in the event that you are suffering from:

• The big toe is a long one that dangles towards smaller toes.
• Hallux rigidus or a stiff toe.
•  The pain can interfere with your everyday activities.
• The swelling and inflammation of the big toe won't disappear.
• Procedure Details

 What Happens Prior to Bunion Surgery?

Before your surgery, you and your surgeon are going to discuss health issues, exercise levels, as well as any other factors that may impact the recovery process. Your foot surgeon will utilize these details to determine the best surgical option for you. When you are scheduled for an appointment with your foot doctor will require you to be at least two hours earlier. Most surgeons will do bunion surgery using local anesthesia (numbing substance around the toe) as well as anesthesia with a low level of monitoring that ensures you are comfortable throughout the procedure. Typically, intubation (breathing tube) and strong anesthesia are not necessary for this kind of procedure.

What Happens During Bunion Surgery?

For the majority of bunion operations, the surgeon makes an incision that is small along the joint of your big toe. Then, your surgeon will reposition the toe that is your largest. The surgeon can also reposition the ligaments or tendons around your toe joint.

Typically, Your Surgeon Places Your Toe With:

•  Metal plates.
•  Small screws.
•  Wires.

The surgeon stitches and bandages around your toe in order to help the healing process go smoothly. The whole procedure can take between 45 minutes and 3 hours, depending on how severe the bunion is and the procedure that needs to be done to correct it.

What Happens After Bunion Surgery?

Surgery for Bunion in Perth is an outpatient process, which means you are able to return to your home on the same day. After the procedure, you'll remain in a hospital recovery room for a period of one to two hours before your surgeon has determined that you are able to go home. You'll need to request someone to transport you to your home. While you recover at the home of your healthcare professional, you will tell you to:

• Do not put too much weight on your big toe.
•  The foot should be elevated to minimize swelling.
•  Make sure your bandages and wounds are dry.
•  Use pain medications as directed. (Antibiotics are not usually required in this kind of procedure in a non-operating room.)

For the first two weeks following surgery, it is possible to need someone to help prepare meals or take care of household chores.

Risks / Benefits

 What are the Benefits of Bunion Surgeries?

The majority of people who undergo surgery for a bunion will experience substantial relief from pain after they heal. The procedure can also help improve the alignment of the big toe. Achieving better alignment of your big toe will allow you to move more comfortably.

What are the Possible Risks and Complications That Can Arise from Bunion Surgery?

 The risks that could be that can be posed by bunion surgery are:

• Bunion Recurrence (coming again).
•  Stiffness or pain that continues to persist.
•  An infection or an inflammation.
•  Nerve damage.
•  Wound-healing problems.

Your doctor will talk about the risks associated with the bunion procedure with you. The complications of bunion surgery are uncommon and are usually manageable. If you experience issues, your recovery may be slower than anticipated.

Recovery and Outlook

 What is the Estimated Time for Recovery?

Typically, you'll get the stitches removed about two weeks following surgery. It takes 6 to 12 weeks to recover your bone. You'll likely need to wear a protective pair of shoes or boots.

During this period of healing, there is a chance that you may not be capable of putting all the weight of your body on one foot. In order to move with ease, you might need to utilize crutches, a wheelchair, or a walking aid. The weight-bearing capacity will be determined by what kind of procedure is taking place to fix your bunion.

After 6 up to 12 weeks, you'll begin to see improvement in the function of your feet. Certain exercises in physical therapy will help you restore the strength of your foot and its flexibility. 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 you heal your feet correctly, You will have to visit your physician for scheduled post-op visits after surgery.

When to Call the Doctor

 When Should I Visit My Physician Regarding the Bunion?

Consult a doctor when your bunion is causing discomfort or causes problems with walking. A bunion surgery can help those who suffer from painful bunions to become active.

What Can I Do to Prevent the Recurrence of Bunions Following Surgery?

Following bunion surgery, it is possible to do things to prevent bunions from recurring. One of the main reasons for bunions is wearing snug-fitting shoes. Be aware that wearing shoes that are too tight can result in bunions returning.

An orthotic can aid in preventing recurrence, if the root of the bunion in the first place was an unpronated, (flatter) feet type.

Stretching can also help in cases where the equinum (tight muscles in the calf) is the root of the bunion.

A Note from the Advanced Foot Surgery in Perth

Your doctor may suggest bunion surgery if you've got uncomfortable, bumps on your bones referred to as bunions. Surgery to treat bunions can reduce pain and help to restore the foot's function. The majority of people who undergo bunion surgery heal well and are able to resume normal activities within six to 12 weeks.