Minimally-invasive bunion surgery: An expert guide

As in many areas, minimally-invasive, or keyhole, surgical approaches can offer improved recovery times and better outcomes for patients suffering from bunions. In this informative article, revered consultant orthopaedic surgeon Mr John McKinley, who specialises in foot and ankle surgery, shares his expert insight on minimally invasive bunion surgery and when it is required. The leading specialist also details the advantages of minimally invasive surgery compared to open surgery.

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a ‘bump’ that develops over the inside of the big toe. The bump is actually due to a change in the position of the underlying bone which is called the metatarsal. One this bone moves, then the toe starts to move in the opposite direction.

What can happen if symptomatic bunions are left untreated? When is surgery required?

Generally, bunions will get worse over the years, but often do so very slowly. Most of the pain from bunions is due the bump rubbing on shoes, so people will modify the type of shoes that they wear. As the bunion gets worse the outside of the foot takes more load – so patients often get pain in the ball of the foot and sometimes will develop deformities of the other toes.

How is minimally invasive bunion surgery performed?

Bunion surgery involves realigning the metatarsal to allow the toe to straighten. To do this, in the majority of cases, the metatarsal bone needs to be cut to correct the deformity – this is called an osteotomy. Minimally invasive surgery is when this osteotomy is done through small key-holes rather than the traditional large scar.

What are the benefits of performing bunion surgery with a minimally invasive approach?

The operation is performed through tiny incisions and as a result, there is less damage to the soft tissues. This tends to mean quicker recovery, less stiffness and a lower risk of infection.

How effective is surgery? What can patients expect from the recovery period?

Patients will be able to walk immediately after surgery, but for the first week or so it is important to keep the foot elevated as much as possible to allow the soft tissues to heal. It takes about 6-8 weeks for the bones to heal, but patients can still get around during this time and can usually get into a wide fitting shoe by 4 weeks. As with any orthopaedic procedure, the final result takes many months but most patients get back to sporting activities after around 3 months.

If you require surgical treatment for bunions and wish to schedule a consultation with Mr McKinley, you can do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile.