A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure to excise, or remove, a bunion. A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe and is comprised of bone and soft tissue.
It is usually a result of inflammation and irritation from poorly fitting (narrow and tight) shoes in conjunction with an overly mobile way of life
The intense pain of a bunion makes walking and other activities extremely difficult. Since the involved joint is a significant structure in providing weight-bearing stability, walking on the foot while trying to avoid putting pressure on the painful area can create an unstable gait.
Why It Is Done
You may want to consider surgery when:
Nonsurgical treatment has not relieved your bunion pain.
You have difficulty walking or doing normal daily activities
How is Bunionectomy Procedure done?
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. If the joint is severely deformed, it may be stabilized with tiny wires, stitches, screws, or plates. A regional anesthetic that affects only the foot is commonly used for bunion surgery. A sedative may also be used during the procedure.
The procedure usually takes an hour or more, depending on the type of surgery.
Bunion repairs are usually done on an outpatient basis.
More than one procedure may be done at the same time. The general types of bunion surgery are:
Removal of part of the metatarsal head (the part of the foot that is bulging out). This procedure is called exostectomy or bunionectomy.
Realignment of the soft tissues (ligaments) around the big toe joint.
Removal of a small wedge of bone from the foot or from the toe.
Removal of bone from the end of the first bone, which joins with the base of the big toe. Both the big toe and metatarsal bones are reshaped .
Fusion of the big toe joint.
Fusion of the joint where the metatarsal bone joins the mid-foot .
Implant insertion of all or part of an artificial joint.
How Well It Works?
After surgery, your ability to walk and do other activities is likely to improve. The big toe joint is generally less painful and, as a result, moves better. After the incision has healed and the swelling has gone down, the toe may look more normal than before.
What to Expect After Surgery?
The usual recovery period after bunion surgery is 6 weeks to 6 months, depending on the amount of soft tissue and bone affected. Complete healing may take as long as 1 year.