Bunions are hard, almost callous-like buildups on the feet. There are many surgical procedures for bunion treatment. For orthopedic surgeons, the goal is to relieve its pain, realign the joints and correct any deformities. If the bunions become severe and interrupt your ability to walk or function, surgery may be required.
Arthrodesis, Tendon and Ligament Repair, and Exostectomy
Surgeries are performed in order to repair the ligaments and tendons that surround the big toe. Sometimes, these surrounding tissues may be too loose on the one side and too tight on the other, thus causing an imbalance that causes the toe to move abnormally. Combined with other procedures, repairing of the tendons and ligaments aims to shorten the loose tissues and lengthen those that are too tight.
Arthrodesis is performed to remove the joint surfaces that have been damaged. It involves the insertion of wires, screws and even plates to hold the joints together while the foot heals. This surgical technique is used for those with severe cases of bunions or those with arthritis, and is also used as an option when other techniques have been unsuccessful. Arthrodesis may also refer to fusion of the big toe's joint. Fusion of this joint is performed for those with severe cases of osteoarthritis.
Exostectomy, on the other hand, removes the bump located at the toe's joint. This is only performed when the bone is enlarged and when the big toe shows no signs of drifting. This is quite uncommon, however, since it rarely achieves successful treatment for the bunion's underlying cause.
Resection Arthroplasty and Osteotomy
Resection arthroplasty involves the removal of the damaged area in the joint. It is usually performed on older patients, those with arthritis and those who have already undergone bunion surgeries in the past. This surgery enables an increased flexibility in the joint.
Osteotomy is a surgical technique where the joint is cut and realigned. The orthopaedic surgeon will determine which appropriate procedure will be performed to treat your condition.
Austin Bunionectomy Lapidus Fusion
The most common type of bunionectomy is Austin bunionectomy. In this procedure, the first metatarsal bone is cut and fixed using a screw. This procedure is also referred to as chevron and tricorrectional. Usually, those who have undergone this procedure may already place some weight on the operated foot's heel after the operation.
Lapidus fusion is performed for the more severe cases of bunions and often involves the fusion of the medial cuneiform bone to the first metatarsal bone. Recovery after this procedure is longer and will require you to wear a cast for six to eight weeks after the procedure.
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