Bunion Surgery – What to Expect

by kapil Mehta # Guest Blogger

A bunion surgery is done to correct a deformity and reduce pain caused by bunions. Hallux valgus (bunion) is the enlargement of a tissue or a bone around the joint of the big toe or little toe. Bunions occur for various reasons,such as, if two joints are stretched for long periods or wearing pointed confining shoes.  

Why you need aminimally invasive bunion surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery is recommended

·         If you experience severe pain when walking on comfortable flat shoes.

·         If there is chronic big toe inflammation and swelling that does not subside upon resting and medications.

·         If the toe is deformed or drifting towards the small toe.

·         And the inability of the toe to bend or straighten.

If you are looking for some expert advice on bunion pain relief, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact a Houston foot and ankle specialist such as Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale. In her practice, DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center, they will provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How to prepare for bunion surgery?

A surgical procedure can be performed depending on the severity of the bunion andthe condition of the connective tissue and bones. It starts with your healthcare provider explaining in depth about the procedure. If you are comfortable with the information, you are asked to sign a consent to permit the doctor to conduct the procedure. Read carefully and ask questions where necessary.  The next step is completing a medical history form,talk of all allergic reactions you might have, and all medications you are under and any supplements you are taking; then your healthcare provider conducts a complete physical exam, including blood tests and other diagnostic tests. History of bleeding disorders should be taken into consideration before the procedure. These determine your health before going through the procedure. Notify the medical practitioner if you are pregnant. Next, before the procedure, you have to fast for 8 hours. A sedative might be givento help you relax. Other specific preparations might be recommended due to medical history.

During surgery

The surgery is usually an outdoor procedure, but depending on your condition the foot doctor might recommend a stay in hospital. The surgery is performed when you are under ankle block anesthesia, which means only your foot is numb but you are awake.

Surgery Procedure

After wearing the gown,an intravenous line may be started in your arm.

An antiseptic solution is used to cleanse the skin over the bunion.

Local anesthetic is offered.

The healthcare provider cuts open the skin, then she might realign, or remove portions oftendons or ligaments and bone affected by the bone.

After the procedure is complete the opening is closed with stitches and a sterile bandage dressing is used.

Your recovery after surgery

Pain and swelling improves in about six weeks after surgery, minor pain and swelling can last up to six months. You might need to wear a special shoe or a cast that will protect your toe while keeping it in the right position. In two weeks after surgery, the doctor will remove your sutures and stitches. If you have the removable pins, they are removed in about 4 to 6 weeks. The extent of the surgery will determine how much time you will take off work.

Home care after surgery

Activity: Get enough sleep to help you recoverand rest whenever tired. Ensure the bandages remain dry and avoid heavy lifting for about 8 weeks and do regular exercises to strengthen the foot and improve movement.

Diet: Right after surgery your bowel movements might not be regular which is common. Take lots of fibersupplemento a mild laxative after consulting your doctor. If you have an upset stomach, take low-fat foods otherwise just take your normal diet.

Medicines:The doctor will prescribe painkillers with clear instructions on how to take them. Then she will recommend when you can resume your other medications like aspirin and blood thinners. For antibiotics prescribed take the full dose.

Incision care: You will have bandages holding your toe in the correct position so after several days the doctor might remove the bandages or ask you to remove them. Do not touch the surgery area and do not soak your foot unless instructed so by the doctor.

Ice and elevation: For swelling and pain put a cold pack of ice on your foot for at least 15 minutes each hour. Anytime time you sit or lay down keep the foot up on a pillow to reduce swelling. 

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Created on Jun 10th 2020 23:58. Viewed 240 times.

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