Mr Stuart A Metcalfe BSc(Hons), MPhil, FRCPod(S)
FELLOW ROYAL COLLEGE OF PODIATRY
SEVERE BUNION CORRECTION
LAPIDUS TYPE CORRECTION
What is an osteotomy?
This word literally means "bone cut". This type of procedure is used to re-align the bones into a corrected postion.
Will the screws set off alarms?
Most surgical implants used in foot surgery are too small to set off security alarms.
What are my anaesthetic options?
Bunion surgery can be carried out using any of the following anaesthetic options:
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Local anaesthetic
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Local + sedation
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General anaesthetic + local
Is my leg in plaster?
No, the vast majority of patients with mild to moderate bunions can have it corrected without the need for a leg plaster. Severe bunions may require a more complex operation necessitating a plaster cast or boot.
Can I drive home after surgery?
No, you will not be able to drive home after your procedure. We will need you to arrange a responsible adult to take you home and be with you.
Do you use pins / screws?
Once the bones are precisely re-aligned they are normally held together with very small pins and or screws.
Would osteoporosis be a problem?
Osteoporosis and other causes of poor bone density would be noted preoperatively. This can sometimes require us to modify how we carry out an operation.
Why always a local anaesthetic?
We always give a local anaesthetic even if your have a general because this will significantly reduce your post-operative pain after surgery.
When do you tell me about my op?
We will know exactly which operation is best for you once we ahve assessed you clinically and reviewed your foot x-rays. The choice of operation is critical to success.
How mobile will I be?
You will need to rest after your procedure. You will be able to move around on your crutches using your postop shoe / boot. You can for example get up and go to the loo.
Will you need to take these out?
These small pins / screws do not normally need to be removed. The screws are typically made of high surgical grade titanium.
Key Hole Surgery
Key hole surgery was very fashionalbe but in our experience it carries unnecessary risks of complications and the recovery is no better.
Do I stay in hospital?
No, virtually all patients are able to go home the same day after their procedure.
Do I need crutches aftewards?
Nearly all patients are given a postoperative shoe and crutches after their operation. We ask you to follow the advice givenoby the nursing / Physio team.
Driving
Most people return to driving at around 4-6 weeks after correction of mild to moderate bunions. If you have left treatment late an need a more complex surgery recovery will be longer.