Hallux Valgus (Bunion) Surgery by Osteotomy and Internal Fixation

Hallux Valgus (Bunion) Surgery by Osteotomy and Internal Fixation
A bunion is a painful enlargement at the joint of the big toe with deformity. The skin over the joint becomes swollen and is often quite tender. Bunions can be inherited as a family trait or can be aggravated by shoes that fit poorly but can develop with no recognisable cause.
An important part of treatment is wearing shoes that conform to the shape of the foot and do not cause pressure areas. This often alleviates the pain. In severe cases, bunions can be disabling. Several types of surgery are available that may relieve pain and improve the appearance of the foot. Surgery is usually done to relieve pain and is not meant for cosmetic purposes.
Your success rate for this surgery is 80-90%


Types of Operation






Problems associated with First Metatarsal Osteotomy Surgery

• 
  Thickened scar and/or tender scar – generally reduce over 12 months. Your risk of this is 1 in 2
  

• 
  Infection (sudden increase in pain and swelling at 2 – 3 days after surgery or sometimes at a later stage). Your risk is low (1 in 100)
  

• 
  Insufficient correction maintained and/or recurrence of deformity. Your risk is low is 1 in 20.
  

• 
  Fixation screws may move and therefore may need removal after the bone has healed. This is rare.
  

• 
  Displacement of the osteotomy especially if you fall or the foot is knocked in the early post operative period
  

• 
  Reduced range of motion and/or pain due to the joint not tolerating correction in the straightened position
  

• 
  Transfer of pain to lesser toes. Your risk of this is low (less than 1 in 10 approx.)
  

• 
  Delayed or Non-union of osteotomy site. Your risk is low (1 in 100)
  

• 
  Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) - A blood clot in the calf or thigh in the muscles of the leg is possible with any surgery. Your risk is very low (less than 1 in 250)
  

• 
  Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) - Pain, which will not resolve. Occasionally the ‘pain tap’ is turned on with surgery and does not switch off again. Your risk is extremely low (less than 1 in 1000)
  

• 
  Post-operative swelling for up to 12 months
  

Additional information

• 
  Healing time for an osteotomy can be up to 6 months
  

• 
  You will be required to wear a splint on your foot to help the toe heal for 3 months
  

• 
  You will be unable to wear normal shoes for up to 3 months