Bunion surgery is performed to relieve discomfort and fix the deformity that is that is caused by the bunion. The bunion (hallux vagus) is an increase in the bone or the tissue surrounding the joint at the top of the large toe, or at the foot’s base. It is also known as an “bunionette” and “tailor’s bunion.” Bunions usually develop when joints are stressed for a long time. Bunions are most often seen on women, and this is due to the fact that women tend to wear pointed, tight and limiting shoes. Bunions can be passed down as an inheritance trait in families. Bunions can also be a result of arthritis. This is often the case with the big toe joint.
If surgery is being considered to be a possibility, your physician might suggest wear comfortable and well-fitting, and comfortable shoes (particularly footwear that is shaped to the foot’s shape and do not create pressure zones). They may also recommend using orthotics and splints (special shoe inserts that fit the shape of your foot) to move the big toe or provide padding. For bunions that are caused by arthritis medication can reduce swelling and pain.
If these therapies don’t work the problem, your physician might recommend surgery. It is often the best option to resolve the issue. The purpose of surgery is to ease discomfort and correct as much deviation as is feasible. The procedure is not considered aesthetic and is not intended to enhance the appearance of the foot.
Other procedures that can aid in diagnosing foot problems include X-rays that scan the foot and bone. Check out these procedures for more details.
The type of surgery that is performed will depend on the degree of the bunion the bunion, your general health, age levels, your activity level, as well as the condition of your connective tissue and bone. Other aspects can affect the selection of the procedure:
- Bunions that are mild. For this type of procedure the surgeon will remove the extra bone, and then realign those muscles and tendons and ligaments around the joint.
- moderate bunion. For a moderate bunion, the surgeon can cut the bone to shift it back to its normal position. The extent to which cutting the bone is contingent on the severity and position where the problem is. Additionally the surrounding tendons and ligaments might require repositioning.
- A severe bunion. For a severe bunion, surgery might include removing the larger portion of bone by cutting and realigning the bone, and adjusting the alignment of the tendons as well as ligaments.
- Big toe or arthritis-related bunion joint. When the toe joint has been damaged beyond repair as it often is with arthritis, it could require to be bonded. This will allow bone to grow and stop pain and movement. Sometimes joint replacement implants can be utilized in reconstructing the large toe joint.
Why Would I Require Bunion Surgery?
It is possible to have bunion surgery if you suffer from painful feet that occur regardless of whether you walk or wear shoes that are comfortable and flat. Surgery is also possible in cases of chronic inflammation of the big toe and swelling can’t be relieved by medications or rest.
Other causes for surgery include toe deformity, a slide into the big toe towards the smaller toe, and the inability to bend or straighten the big toe.
There are other possible reasons for your healthcare professional to suggest bunion surgery.
What are the Dangers of Surgery to Treat Bunion?
Like any surgery, complications could occur. A few possible complications could include:
- Stiffness
- Numbness
- Swelling
- Delay in healing
- Infection
Other problems could be an increase in the frequency of bunion pain or nerve injury, as well as persistent discomfort. Surgery may cause overcorrection of the problem, which means that the big toe can be separated from the other toes.
There are other potential dangers based on your particular medical health condition. Make sure you discuss any concerns you have with your physician prior to the procedure.
How Can I Prepare in Advance for Surgery on My Bunion?
- The doctor who is treating you is going to explain what the process involves, and provide you the chance to inquire about any questions you may be unsure about the procedure.
- You will be required to fill out a consent document which gives you permission to carry out the procedure. Take the time to read the form thoroughly as well as ask any questions you have if anything is unclear.
- In addition to taking a full medical history, your healthcare professional could conduct a full physical examination to ensure that you’re in good health prior to going through the procedure. There are blood tests you can undergo or other tests for diagnosing.
- Discuss with your physician whether you’re sensitive to or allergic to any medicine such as latex, tape as well as anesthetic compounds (local or general).
- Inform your healthcare provider about any medications (prescribed or over the counter) as well as herbal supplement you’re taking.
- Inform your doctor whether you have a previous history of bleeding disorders or if you take some anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs such as aspirin or drugs that interfere with blood clotting. It might be necessary to stop taking these medications prior to the procedure.
- If you’re expecting or believe you’re pregnant, you must inform your doctor.
- It is possible to fast for eight hours prior to the procedure, generally, after midnight.
- It is possible to receive a sedative prior to the procedure to ease your mind. Since the sedative can cause you to feel sleepy it is necessary to find someone to take you home.
- Dependent on the medical health condition, your doctor might suggest a different medication.
What Happens During Bunion Surgery?
Bunion surgery in Perth can be performed as an outpatient procedure or, in rare cases, during the hospitalization process. The procedure may differ based on your medical condition and the health care provider’s procedures.
The majority of bunion surgeries are done with an ankle block anesthesia where the foot is numb however, you remain awake. Sometimes, spinal or general anesthesia is utilized.
Generally speaking, bunion surgery is a process that follows this model:
- You are asked to remove your clothes and given an outfit to wear.
- The IV (IV) line could be inserted into your hand or arm.
- The skin that covers the bunion is cleaned with an antiseptic cream.
- In the event that a local anesthetic has been employed, you’ll feel the needle stick as the anesthetic is administered. It could cause an immediate sensation of stinging. If you are using general anesthesia for the procedure, you’ll be put to bed using intravenous drugs.
- The physician may cut or realign, or maybe remove a portion of ligaments, bones and tendons of the foot affected based on the degree that the bunion is.
- The healthcare professional will then close the hole by stitching and then put on a sterilized bandage dressing.
What Happens After Bunion Surgery?
Following your procedure after procedure, you will be transported to the recovery area to be observed. Your recovery time will differ according to the type of anesthesia used. The circulation and the sensation of your feet will be assessed. When your pulse, blood pressure, and breathing are in good condition and you’re alert then you’ll be transferred to the hospital room or transferred to your home.
The Podiatrist who treated you will give you specific directions to take care of your feet at home in the first few weeks following surgery. It is possible to leave the hospital in a cast or surgical shoe to safeguard your foot.
When you’re at home, it is important to rest and keep your foot elevated with two or three pillows to reduce swelling and pain. Your Foot surgeon may recommend applying an ice pack and avoiding walking. It is possible to utilize a walker or cane after surgery.
It is essential that you keep your dressing fresh and dry. Cover the dressing with a bag of plastic or wrap and then tape it using plastic tape when showering. A different option is to use an in-spray bath. These stitches are removed at an appointment for follow-up, usually scheduled two weeks after the surgery.
Use a pain relief medication for soreness according to the recommendations of your doctor. Aspirin and other pain medications can increase the risk of bleeding. Make sure you take only prescribed medications. Your physician may prescribe antibiotics to reduce the risk of infections following surgery.
Inform your doctor to make a report of any of these:
- The fever should be 100.4degF (38degC) or greater or as prescribed by your health care provider
- Bleeding, swelling, redness, or any other drainage from the site of the incision
- Pain that is more intense around the site of incision
- Swelling in the lower leg of the affected foot
Your healthcare provider will guide you about your postoperative activities post-operatively. Your foot might require continuous support with braces or dressings for 6-8 weeks following surgery. You might be required to stay away from driving for a week or longer after the surgery.
Physical therapy or exercises might be suggested to aid the recovery of strength and flexibility following surgery. Avoid high heels for at least six months following surgery.
Our foot Surgeon in Perth will provide you with additional or alternative instructions after the procedure according to your specific situation.