Basics of Bunion Surgery

A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure used to correct a bunion, which is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. This surgery helps realign the bones, relieve pain, and improve foot function. It is usually recommended when non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief.

Surgical Approach to Correcting Bunions

During a bunionectomy, the surgeon makes an incision near the affected joint of the big toe. The bone is then carefully cut, repositioned, or reshaped depending on the severity of the deformity. Special orthopedic instruments such as bone saws, chisels, and fixation devices like screws or plates are used. Soft tissues around the joint are adjusted to restore proper alignment and reduce tension. The procedure often uses fixation implants to hold the corrected bone in place during healing. Recovery involves bandaging, splinting, and gradual return to walking with the help of supportive devices.