What to know about minimally invasive bunion surgery

In this article below, revered consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Karthik Karuppaiah, discusses minimally invasive bunion surgery in expert detail.

What is minimally invasive bunion surgery and how does it differ from traditional surgery?

The surgery involves using smaller cuts on your skin which means lesser damage to soft tissue whilst during the surgery. This is done with special tools under image (xray) guidance. In traditional surgery the surgical cuts are larger and the surgery is performed under direct vision.

What are the benefits and risks of minimally invasive bunion surgery?

There is minimal soft tissue stripping with this surgery which helps to reduce your swelling and pain after surgery. There is also smaller risk of wound complications after surgery. Overall, you have a better chance of quicker recovery with little down time and sooner return to regular activity.

How long is the recovery time after minimally invasive bunion surgery?

Most patients do well by four weeks and able to get into regular shoes and allowed to drive with some simple exercises including swimming and cycling. By six weeks, patients are allowed to do contact sports.

What can I expect during the minimally invasive bunion surgery procedure?

Surgery is performed as a day-case procedure under general or regional anaesthesia. You would be going home the same day with open shoe with advice to walk on it full weight bearing. You are expected to self care including showering and going to the toilet but keeping your feet elevated during rest time for the first two weeks. You will have regular follow up in the clinic.

How effective is minimally invasive bunion surgery in relieving pain and correcting the bunion?

Any type of bunion surgery is effective for a painful bunion. Minimal invasive surgery has an added benefit of good correction for severe deformities and quicker recovery time.