Your doctor has recommended that you undergo surgery to remove a bunion.
But what does that actually mean?
A bunion is caused when the metatarsal bone in the big toe gradually shifts towards the
second toe.
This shift causes a bump at the inside of the big toe's first joint.
As a bunion grows, it can lead to other painful foot problems, including hammertoes, calluses
on the bottom of the foot and arch pain.
Bunions are largely hereditary, but they can effect anyone.
Even a small instability in the bones of the big toe can trigger the growth of a bunion.
Patient Education
A bunion does not generally lead to other health problems, but left untreated it can
eventually limit the ability to walk.
Luckily, bunions can be treated with a fairly simple surgical procedure.
So make sure that you ask your doctor to carefully explain the reasons behind this recommendation.
On the day of your operation, you will be asked to put on a surgical gown.
You may receive a sedative by mouth and an intravenous line may be put in.
You will then be transferred to the operating table.
In the operating room, a nurse will begin preparation by clipping or shaving and cleaning
your foot.
The anesthesiologist will begin to administer anesthesia - most likely locally - causing
your foot to become numb.
The surgeon will then apply antiseptic solution to the skin and place a sterile drape around
the operative site.
The surgical team will then make an incision over the bunion and the skin will be pulled
back.
Below the skin is a membrane - or capsule - surrounding the MTP joint that connects
the metatarsal bone to the rest of the big toe.
Another incision is made, opening the capsule and exposing the bone.
Your doctor will then cut or file away the bony and fibrous outgrowth at the joint.
After the bunion has been reduced, the surgical team will close the MTP joint capsule with
stitches and the outer layer of the skin will be sutured
closed as well.
Finally, a sterile dressing is applied.