What is Bunionectomy

You have developed a bunion. This causes two problems. Your big toe is bending towards your second toe. Also the bump on the joint of your big toe sticks out. It usually makes finding comfortable shoes difficult. The bump on your toe may be red and sore. The aim of the operation is to reduce the pain that you get from your bunion.

The Operation

You will have a general anaesthetic, and will be asleep for the whole operation. Your toe will be straightened. This is done by breaking the bone and moving your toe into a new position. This is called an osteotomy. A cut is made over the top of your abnormal joint. The bony lump on the side of the joint is then removed. A bone in your foot is cut and your toe moved into a better position. The bones may, or may not, be held with a screw or special staple until they heal together. The skin wound is then closed up with stitches. A plaster cast is put on your foot to hold your big toe in its new position. You will be in hospital either just for the day of the operation or for one more day. . You will be in a plaster for approximately six weeks.