An Overview: Hallux Valgus (Bunions)
Hallux Valgus (Bunions)
The procedure has 5 components performed through 2 incisions. Initially, one of the tight ligaments and the tight muscle are released and the bunion is shaved. The metatarsal bone is cut and adjusted to narrow the foot and realign the joint and 2 small screws are placed in the bone to fix it solidly. Following this a wedge of bone is removed from the phalanx bone to straighten the big toe and a small staple or screw is used to hold the bone in place. The joint capsule is tightened and the skin is closed. The metalwork does not usually need to be removed. The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic along with a nerve block which puts the foot to sleep for around 12-18 hours.
Plaster is not required as the toe is held in place with a bandage for 4-6 weeks. As with all surgery some swelling occurs. This may limit your activity and choice of footwear. Swelling can increase initially then subside as your toe heals. You can take simple oral pain relief as required.
Hospital stay | 1 night |
Rest & elevation | 10 days |
Crutches/frame | 1-2 weeks |
Foot swelling | 12 weeks |
Seated | 3-4 weeks |
Standing | 6-8 weeks |
Lifting/carrying | 8-12 weeks |
- Relieves painful symptoms
- Allows return to physical activities
- Allows patient to wear normal footwear
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Reaction to the anaesthetic
- Recurrence of the deformity
- Overcorrection of the big toe
- Problems with bone fixation
- Numbness or hypersensitivity of the toe