Osteotomy Bunion Surgery is a recommended procedure for chronic foot pain, toe deformities, and stiffness caused by bunions. The surgery involves removing bones from the big toe and realigning the joint, taking about 60 minutes under general anesthesia.
Recovery takes about four to six months, during which patients must limit walking and potentially undergo physical therapy. The surgery is available across various locations, including Mercy Health. This article will cover everything from preparing for surgery to risks and complications to provide you with a comprehensive guide.
Preparing for Surgery
When non-surgical therapies fail to alleviate chronic foot pain, toe deformity, or stiffness, your doctor may recommend osteotomy bunion surgery. This procedure removes bones from the big toe and realigns the joint to relieve symptoms. However, before undergoing surgery, you’ll need to take several steps to prepare.
Preparations and Evaluations Before Surgery
Prior to surgery, your doctor will conduct several evaluations to ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure and to determine the best course of action. These evaluations might include:
- A complete medical history and physical examination.
- X-rays to evaluate the extent of the deformity and help plan the surgery.
- Blood tests to check for any underlying medical conditions that could increase your risk of complications.
Medications to Avoid Before Surgery
Before your surgery, your doctor may advise you to avoid certain medications and supplements that could increase your risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. These could include:
- Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Blood-thinning medications such as warfarin or heparin.
- Herbal supplements and vitamins that may interfere with clotting or anesthesia, such as fish oil and ginkgo biloba.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The procedure involves removing bones from the big toe and realigning the joint. You’ll receive general anesthesia so you will not feel any discomfort. The surgery usually takes about 60 minutes to complete.
Preparing Your Home for After the Surgery
After surgery, you’ll need to take extra care with activities of daily living to allow your foot to heal properly. Some things you can do to prepare your home for this include:
- Moving furniture to clear paths for easy mobility with crutches or a walker.
- Having comfortable chairs that make it easy to sit and elevate your foot.
- Having pillows and blankets handy to keep your foot comfortable and supported.
- Clearing clutter from floors to reduce fall risks.
Overview: What is Osteotomy Bunion Surgery?
Osteotomy Bunion Surgery is a procedure recommended for people experiencing chronic foot pain, toe deformities, or stiffness caused by bunions. This surgical procedure involves removing bones from the big toe and realigning the joint to alleviate pain and discomfort.
This section provides an overview of the causes of bunions and symptoms that require surgery, the different types of osteotomy bunion surgery procedures, and the risks and benefits of this surgery.
Causes of Bunions and Symptoms that need surgery
Bunions are painful bony bumps that develop on the side of the foot, near the base of the big toe. They form when the bones of the foot shift out of alignment, forcing the big toe to move toward the other toes.
This can cause the joint at the base of the big toe to become enlarged, causing swelling, pain, and discomfort. If left untreated, a bunion can become so large that it can make it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably. Typically, people with severe pain that interferes with daily activities or those with persistent pain, even when not walking or wearing shoes, are good candidates for bunion surgery.
Types of Osteotomy Bunion Surgery Procedures
There are several types of osteotomy bunion surgery procedures. The two most common procedures are:
- Distal Chevron Osteotomy: This procedure involves surgically cutting and moving the metatarsal bone to realign the joint. Once the bone is in the correct position, it is held in place with screws or pins.
- Austin Bunionectomy: This procedure involves surgically cutting and removing part of the metatarsal bone, to realign the joint. The remaining bone is then fixated with screws, wires, or plates to hold the bones in place as they heal.
Your healthcare provider will determine which bunion surgery procedure is right for you, depending on factors such as the severity of your bunion, the angle of your toe, and your lifestyle and activity level.
Risks and Benefits of Osteotomy Bunion Surgery
Like any medical procedure, osteotomy bunion surgery comes with risks and benefits. Benefits of this procedure include relief from pain, improved joint function, and increased mobility. However, there are also risks associated with this surgery, including:
- Nerve injury or damage
- Stiffness of the joint
- Sensitisation and pain
- The formation of a new bunion
- Non-healing of the bone
- Weight transfer to the second toe
- Infection of the skin or bone
- Anaesthetic problems
It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of bunion surgery with your healthcare provider to determine if this procedure is appropriate for you.
Before Surgery Care
Prior to undergoing osteotomy bunion surgery, patients need to prepare and make important arrangements. The following sections provide important considerations for ensuring a successful surgical outcome.
Doctor and Healthcare Provider Considerations
- Patients should choose an orthopedic specialist who is certified and experienced in performing osteotomy bunion surgery. It is important to look for a doctor who has a track record of successful surgeries.
- Patients must inform their doctor about any underlying medical conditions, allergies, and medications that they are currently taking. It is important for the doctor to ensure that all medical conditions are addressed before the surgery and that the patient is cleared for surgery.
- Prior to the surgery, patients should ask their doctor any questions they may have about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks and complications.
Pre-Surgery Instructions and Tests
- Patients may need to undergo several pre-operative tests, including blood tests, X-rays, and an electrocardiogram (ECG).
- Prior to the surgery, patients may be instructed to stop taking certain medications, vitamins, or supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with anesthesia. Patients should follow their doctor’s instructions carefully.
- Patients may also be instructed to stop smoking or using any tobacco products to reduce the risk of complications during the surgery.
Transportation Arrangements
- Prior to the surgery, patients need to arrange for transportation to and from the hospital or surgical center. Patients will not be able to drive themselves home after the surgery due to the effects of anesthesia.
- Patients should also arrange for a family member or friend to stay with them for the first few days after the surgery to assist with everyday tasks and provide support during the recovery process.
By carefully following these before-surgery care guidelines, patients can help ensure a safe and successful surgical outcome and a smoother recovery process.
During Surgery Care
During the Osteotomy Bunion Surgery, certain requirements must be met to ensure that the surgery is successful and the patient remains safe. Below are some important considerations during the surgery:
Procedure Requirements
- The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes around one hour.
- The surgeon will create an incision on the side of the big toe to gain access to the affected joint.
- The bone is then cut and realigned to its proper position.
- Various types of osteotomy bunion surgery procedures exist to suit each patient’s needs, such as chevron, scarf, and Lapidus procedures.
General Anesthesia Protocols
- The surgeon or anesthesiologist will provide the patient with general anesthesia, which induces unconsciousness during the procedure, to ensure the patient remains pain-free during surgery.
- The patient will be closely monitored throughout the procedure to ensure their safety and comfort.
Incision Site Care and Management
- The surgeon will apply a dressing and bandage to the affected area.
- Careful monitoring of the incision site is essential to prevent possible complications such as infection or bleeding.
- The incision site must be kept dry and clean.
Care During the Surgery
- The surgical team will monitor the patient’s vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure their safety.
- All instruments must be sterile to prevent infection.
- The surgeon may use various suturing techniques to close the incision site, and a brace, surgical shoe, or cast may be applied to protect the foot during the healing process.
It is important to note that every patient is different, and the specific care required during surgery may vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions about the procedure with your healthcare provider before the surgery.
After Surgery Care
After surgery, patients go through a recovery process that requires rest, care, and physical therapy to fully heal. Recovery timelines may differ depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s health status.
Post-surgery care and instructions
- Keep the surgical dressing clean and dry.
- Avoid any strenuous activity, such as sports or exercise, until instructed otherwise.
- Wear a surgical shoe or brace to support the foot and aid in recovery.
- Administer any prescribed medications as instructed by the healthcare provider.
- Follow instructions on the use of crutches or other devices to limit stress on the affected foot.
Recovery timeline and expectations
Patients can expect to experience swelling, pain, bruising, stiffness, and discomfort after surgery. Recovery time can vary from four to six months based on the type of procedure performed and the patient’s health and lifestyle habits.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Physical therapy helps improve muscle strength, flexibility, and joint mobility while reducing pain and stiffness.
- Patients may get involved in different physical therapy exercises, including active exercises, passive exercises, and range of motion exercises.
- Patients also undergo rehabilitation aimed at helping them regain strength and coordination in the affected foot.
Follow-up appointments and check-ins
- Patient follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are essential to monitor the healing process, check for potential complications, and remove surgical stitches or pins if necessary.
- Patients need to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and should contact their healthcare provider immediately if there are signs of any problems or if pain or discomfort worsens.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgery, osteotomy bunion surgery has potential risks and complications. It is essential for patients to understand the possible risks and complications and ways to reduce the risks before deciding to undergo the procedure.
Overview of Potential Complications
Complications associated with osteotomy bunion surgery include:
- Recurrence or over-correction of the bunion
- Sensitivity and pain at the surgical site
- Non-healing of the bone
- Stiffness of the big toe
- Weight transfer to the second toe
- Infection of the skin or bone
- Thrombosis, or blood clotting
- Anesthesia-related problems
While these complications can occur, they are relatively rare. The benefits of the surgery typically outweigh the risks for most patients.
Infection and Other Medical Complications
One of the most concerning risks of any surgical procedure is infection. This risk is particularly present with osteotomy bunion surgery, as it involves removing bones from the big toe, leaving an open wound. Patients should follow all the instructions provided by their doctor to avoid infection risk, including keeping the wound clean, changing dressings regularly, and taking antibiotics as prescribed.
Other possible medical complications may occur, and the level of risk may differ from patient to patient. These can include nerve damage, allergic reactions, blood clots, and other complications that can cause significant harm to the patient.
Ways to Reduce the Risks of Complications
The best way for patients to reduce risks and complications is to follow all the instructions provided by their doctor. Careful preparation before the procedure, such as quitting smoking, eating healthily, and participating in physical therapy, can help reduce the risks. Also, it is essential to have a close follow-up with the surgeon and seek medical attention promptly if any complications arise.
Additional Information
Alternative Treatments for Bunions
Although osteotomy bunion surgery is a common procedure to treat bunions, it’s important to note that there are alternative treatments available. These treatments may help alleviate pain and manage symptoms associated with bunions. Some alternative treatments include:
- Wearing wider shoes that fit properly to accommodate the bunion
- Using padded inserts or custom-made orthotics for foot support
- Using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
- Icing the affected area to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief
- Using toe spacers or splints to help realign the joint and improve mobility
Finding an Orthopedic Specialist Near You
If you’re considering osteotomy bunion surgery or alternative treatments for bunions, it’s important to find a trusted orthopedic specialist in your area. You can start by researching online or asking for referrals from your primary care physician or other healthcare providers. Look for orthopedic specialists who specialize in foot and ankle surgery and have experience in treating bunions.
Healthcare Providers and Hospitals that can Treat Bunions
In addition to finding an orthopedic specialist, you may also need to find a hospital or healthcare provider that offers quality bunion treatment. Some popular healthcare providers for bunion treatment include Mercy Health, Cleveland Clinic, Luxe Foot Surgery Center, and Mayo Clinic. It’s best to do your own research and consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Osteotomy Bunion Surgery
If you’re considering osteotomy bunion surgery, you may have some questions about the procedure. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers:
- What is the recovery time for osteotomy bunion surgery?
- What are some potential complications associated with this surgery?
- Do I need to stay overnight in the hospital after the surgery?
- Will surgery allow me to wear smaller shoe sizes?
While surgery can help alleviate bunion symptoms and improve the appearance of the foot, it may not allow you to wear smaller shoe sizes or narrow, pointed shoes. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.
