Relief Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

What Exactly Are Bunions?

A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe as it becomes progressively displaced inward toward the other toes. This misalignment causes the big toe joint to jut outward, creating the characteristic "bump" that can rub against shoes. Bunions can also develop on the joint of the little toe, known as a bunionette or tailor's bunion.

What Are the Underlying Causes of Bunions?

While the exact cause is not fully understood, bunions are most commonly caused by a combination of genetic structural foot deformities, arthritis, and biomechanical factors like excessive pronation that put abnormal stress on the big toe joint over time.

What Symptoms Are Associated with Bunions?

In addition to the visible bump on the foot, bunion symptoms may include:

• Pain, soreness or tenderness at the bunion site
• Swelling, redness or blistering over the bump
• Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
• Numbness from nerve compression
• Calluses or corns from friction

As the deformity worsens, the big toe may angle inward across the smaller toes, producing a distorted foot shape and restricted joint mobility.

Is There a Likelihood of Bunions Worsening Over Time?

Yes, bunions are progressive deformities that will likely worsen without proper treatment and management. As the big toe continues drifting inward, the bony protrusion becomes larger and more visible. Eventually, arthritis can develop in the joint as well.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Bunions?

In the early stages, conservative treatments like roomy shoes, bunion pads, orthotics, icing and medication may help relieve bunion symptoms. However, these measures can't reverse or stop the progression of the underlying deformity.

For severe, painful bunion deformities, surgery is typically recommended to realign the toe joint and relieve pressure on the bunion. This involves removing the bony enlargement and repositioning the toe bones into their proper anatomical positions.

Could You Explain What Minimally Invasive (Keyhole) Surgery Involves?

Traditionally, bunion correction involved an open surgical procedure with larger incisions to access and remodel the bones. However, minimally invasive bunion surgery from the Foot & Ankle Center of Arizona utilizes advanced techniques and specialized instrumentation to perform the same reconstructive steps through tiny keyhole incisions.

Using a miniature camera for visualization, our podiatrists are able to remove the bunion growth, release tight tendons/ligaments, reposition the toe bones, and insert stabilizing hardware or bone grafts - all through incisions about the size of a postage stamp.