Bunion Surgery With Bone Fusion: Understanding the Procedure

Updated on: November 14, 2023

Bunion surgery with bone fusion is a special procedure intended for providing patients with relief from pain and discomfort caused by bunions. This surgical technique is innovative and it guarantees lasting stability of the joint. In this guide we will delve into the characteristics of the procedure and explain everything a patient awaiting this procedure might want to know, so let’s start now!

What Kind of Procedure Is Bunion Surgery With Bone Fusion?

There are three types of bunion surgery – artificial joint implant, cut and removal surgery, and fusion surgery. A doctor might recommend fusion surgery to stop the two bones from moving and thus reduce the pain. In case of bone fusion, the surgeon will perform a procedure to fuse the bones with wires, plates, and screws forming the big toe joint.

When the joints are very damaged, and there is no hope of repair, the best thing to do is to fuse the bones and let them heal to eliminate the movement. Sometimes, a joint implant might be needed to reconstruct the joint in the big toe.

How Does Pre-Operative Preparation Go?

Every patient is obliged to follow the pre-operative instructions. For instance, the patient cannot have anything to drink or eat eight or twelve hours before the operation, depending on the required anesthesia.

Medical Evaluation: The journey towards surgery begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation. This stage involves a meticulous review of your medical history, current medications, allergies, and lifestyle habits.
Pre-Operative Instructions: Once your medical evaluation is complete, you’ll receive a set of specific instructions to prepare for the surgery. These guidelines will cover various aspects, including your food and drink intake, any necessary medication adjustments, and prescribed bathing procedures.
Pre-Operative Education: Education forms a vital part of pre-operative preparation. Your healthcare providers will explain the surgical procedure in detail, discussing the potential risks and benefits, and outlining the expected recovery process.
Mental and Emotional Preparation: The psychological aspect of pre-operative preparation is often overlooked, but it’s just as important as the physical preparation.

What Does the Surgical Process Entail?

The surgery entails realigning the bones of the metatarsophalangeal joint. The surgeon uses screws, plates, and wires to fuse the bones. Any bony outgrowths will be removed, and the bones will be aligned correctly. After the procedure, the patient needs to follow a specific recovery plan to properly heal.

What Are the Benefits of Bunion Surgery With Bone Fusion?

Here are some of the benefits of bunion surgery with bone fusion that patients experience:

After the recovery, the pain should subside and there will be long-term relief and comfort,
Doing more physically demanding activities won’t be a problem,
The swelling and inflammation around the joint will not return,
A better quality of life for patients,
The surgery prevents the progression of bunions,
Additional joint problems will be solved once the bunion is taken care of.

How Long Is the Recovery Process?

After approximately two weeks, the stitches will be removed. However, the bones will take about 6 to 12 weeks to recover. Patients usually need to wear protective footwear. During these four months, putting all the weight on the foot is prohibited, and you will require crutches. However, after this period, you will slowly begin to get your foot function back. The strength of the foot can be restored with physical therapy.

What Are Bunions?

Bunions, or hallux valgus, is a progressive deformity of the joint in the big toe. The condition presents itself as a bony bump at the base of a person’s big toe. As the deformity gradually develops, an early symptom occurs when the big toe turns in and leans on the toe next to it. Ultimately the condition leads to difficulty wearing certain footwear, pain, and inflammation.

When Is Bunion Surgery Necessary?

When alternative non-surgical treatments for a bunion prove to be futile and the severe foot pain persists even when wearing comfortable shoes for bunions or while resting, a surgical approach might be necessary. On top of this, recurring swelling and inflammation that cannot be relieved with medicine or rest or the inability to straighten or bend the big toe indicate that a non-invasive surgery would be the best approach.

Consult Your Doctor in Miami and Schedule the Procedure as Soon as Possible

Do you require bunion surgery with bone fusion? An accurate diagnosis and treatment plan can be provided only by a surgeon who is an expert in treating bunions. We recommend reaching out to our clinic in Miami – Luxe Foot Surgery, and having your condition examined by specialists. Contact us and get a date for your appointment. We are waiting for your call.