Bunion Surgery
What is a bunion?
A bunion is a bony lump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe.
The most common cause of bunions is footwear that does not have enough width to fit the toes in their natural position. They are occasionally associated with arthritis of the joint at the base of the big toe.
What does the operation involve?
The operation may involve removing the bunion, releasing or tightening ligaments, realigning your big toe, stiffening a joint and straightening your smaller toes.
The operation usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. Various anaesthetic techniques are possible. You should be able to go home the same day or the day after.
Bunion surgery at The Horder Centre
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Andrew Skyrme talks about the different surgery options for bunions.
Are there any alternatives to bunion surgery?
Putting padding over the bunion or a spacer between your big toe and second toe can help.
Using wide-fitting shoes from a good-quality shoe shop may be enough. If not, the orthotics department at the hospital will be able to give you advice about special shoes.
Information leaflet
This document is intended for information purposes only and should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.
Acknowledgements
Mr Stephen Milner DM FRCS (Tr. & Orth.)
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The operation and treatment information on this webpage is produced using information from EIDO Systems International and is licensed by Horder Healthcare. The information should not replace the advice that your relevant health professional would give you.
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