What is Involved in Bunion Correction Surgery

A bunion, or hallux valgus, affects the big toe. This toe complication involves the formation of a bony bump on the side of the toe. Bunions present at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint thus can affect toe function. Fortunately, your foot surgeon Fort Worth may perform a bunionectomy or bunion surgery on your foot to restore function. Your doctor will design your treatment plan depending on your condition. For example, you may need big toe repositioning during the treatment to relieve pain and enhance function.

What are the types of bunion surgery?

Surgeons apply varying techniques during bunionectomy. The following are the most common types of bunion surgery:

• Exostectomy: This rare technique involves shaving off the bump on your toe. It is common for surgeons to combine the technique with osteotomy, and toe repositioning, to ensure desired outcomes.
• Osteotomy: This invasive procedure is one of the most popular and involves making two incisions to access the MTP joint. Your surgeon will use screws and pins to cause big toe realignment.
• Arthrodesis: This joint fusion targets bunions that occur due to arthritis. Part of your big toe joint affected by arthritis must come out, allowing your surgeon room to screw and hold bones together.

Who needs to have bunion surgery?

There are many reasons to seek bunion treatment. However, your doctor might recommend conservative approaches before considering more invasive techniques. Bunion surgery is necessary if your bunions are painful and causing functional difficulties, which limit your overall well-being. The following symptoms support your candidacy for bunion surgery:

• A big toe that bends towards smaller toes
• Stiffness in the big toes: Another term for this condition is hallux rigidus
• Pain when moving your big toe.
• Chronic big toe swelling and inflammation

What happens before bunion surgery?

You will schedule an initial consultation to inform your doctor about your condition and any symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will recommend bunionectomy if conservative treatments have failed to solve your concerns. Your doctor will discuss issues regarding what to expect during the treatment and the significance of factors like a healthy and active lifestyle in speeding up recovery. 

Ensure you arrive early on the day of your procedure. Local anesthesia is necessary during bunion surgery to numb the big toe and guarantee painless treatment. Your doctor may also administer light anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the treatment. Reviewing your medical history is key to recognizing your risk of allergic reaction to anesthesia, thus causing necessary treatment readjustment.

What happens during bunion surgery?

Most bunionectomy involves making incisions to access the MTP joint and then repositioning the big toe and tendons or ligaments around it using metal plates, screws, and wires. You will need stitches and bandages for optimal big toe healing.

After surgery, you will wait in a recovery room for monitoring before discharge. You may need to keep pressure off your big toe and raise your foot to enhance blood flow and reduce swelling. Ensure your wound and bandages are dry, and remember to take prescribed medications. Contact Trinity Foot & Ankle Specialists to find out your candidacy for a bunionectomy to remove unsightly bumps in your big toe.