In essence, bunion is the term given to the bony bump that develops at the big toe’s base.
Wearing of footwear that is too small or narrow is considered one of the most common culprits of the painful condition.
There are more cases of bunions in women than in men.
When the condition does not respond to noninvasive treatments, surgery might be recommended to correct the deformity.
Removal of the bunions is sometimes referred to as bunionectomy, hallux valgus (Latin term for “foot deformity”) removal, or bunions surgery.
Bunion Surgery
To help alleviate the pain brought about by bunion, some wear shoes that are larger than their feet size.
Others find comfort when wearing protected pads.
Unfortunately, there will be instances when even making significant lifestyle adjustments won’t be able to improve the condition.
In similar scenarios, bunions surgery might become the best treatment option.
Some cases that might require bunion surgery can include the following:
- Patient experiences severe pain. The pain and discomfort can make the performance of daily routine and activities extra challenging.
- Patient can no longer walk without experiencing pain.
- The big toe is still swollen and painful even after proper rest and medication.
- Straightening or bending the toe is no longer possible.
For patients who are possible candidates for bunion surgery, discussing the condition as well as the procedure with the doctor is highly recommended.
A discussion with the doctor is important so both parties can decide on the kind of surgery to be performed to correct the condition.
To accurately diagnose the condition, an X-ray of the affected foot might be recommended.
While unknown to many, there are more than 100 different types of bunion removal procedures that can remove the bunion and realign the big toe.
However, oftentimes, the kind of bunion removal surgery will depend on the progression as well as the size of the bunion.
Preparation
Before the surgery, it will be likely that patients will be asked to undergo a few tests to assess their overall health status.
A cardiogram (to check heart function), X-ray of the lungs, blood and urine tests might also be suggested to check for other possible underlying conditions.
Patients taking blood thinning and other medications will most likely be asked to refrain from doing so at least a few days before the scheduled surgery.
After the surgery, patients are often already allowed to go home once the anesthesia has worn off.
Fasting might also be recommended but it will be determined based on the starting time of the scheduled procedure so it would be best to check with your doctor on this.
As a general rule of thumb, it would be best to ask for a list of dos and don’ts and make sure you strictly adhere to them so likely complications that will arise can be avoided.
Procedure
In most cases, general anesthesia will not be required during bunion removal surgery.
Oftentimes however, a local anesthetic known as ankle block will be given.
It works by numbing the area situated below the knee.
The surgeon will proceed with the bunion removal and other necessary repairs once the knee is numb.
While there are several types of bunion removal surgeries, the following are three of the most common:
Osteotomy
The joint of the big toe is cut and realigned.
Exostectomy
No alignment is done but removal of the bunion is performed.
Arthrodesis
Metal plates or screws are used to replace the damaged joint and to correct the deformity.
Patient will be taken to the recovery room right after the surgery.
The blood pressure and heart rate will also be monitored while waiting for the anesthesia to wear off.
Fortunately, in most cases, patients can already go home after a couple of hours or so.
Recovery
Recovery from the surgery will usually take 6 to 8 weeks.
However, it will take at least 4 to 6 months for full recovery to take place.
Patients will have to wear a surgical boot or a cast for at least 2 weeks after the procedure.
For more information about bunion and the procedure appropriate for your case, visit www.bjios.sg now.
