Bunion removal

Alternative names:

bunionectomy

Definition:

Surgical treatment of a deformity of the bones of the big toe and foot (bunion).

Description:

A bunion is a painful deformity of the bones and joint between the foot and the big toe. Long-term irritation (chronic inflammation) from arthritis, poorly-fitting shoes, or heredity causes the joint to thicken and enlarge. This causes the big toe bone to angle in toward and over the second toe, the foot bone (metatarsal) to angle out toward the other foot, and the skin to thicken (callus formation).

Removal of a bunion is usually done while the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia) and rarely requires a hospital stay. An incision is made along the bones of the big toe into the foot. The deformed joint and bones are repaired and the bones are stabilized with a pin or cast.

Indications:

Surgery is recommended to correct the deformity, reconstruct the bones and joint, and restore normal, pain-free function.