Hallux valgus is a very common foot pathology .
Visually, hallux valgus appears as an outward displacement of the base of the big toe, with the consequent deviation of the tip of the toe itself towards the inside of the foot, compressing the other toes.
This condition, which primarily affects women , causes severe pain and consequent limitation of movement in the big toe. In the most severe cases, the entire foot and posture are affected, becoming a truly debilitating disease.
So, in this article titled "bunion surgery," let's see when to resort to surgery, what the procedure involves, and, above all, who to trust.
When to resort to surgery?
Surgery is often used to treat this disease.
Traditional hallux valgus surgery involves an osteotomy aimed at realigning the big toe. It's a relatively simple and quick procedure that's usually performed as an outpatient procedure.
However, be careful, as there are also conservative treatments that can prevent the condition from worsening. Those who opt for surgery are those patients who have not achieved the desired results with conservative techniques and whose quality of life has significantly deteriorated.
There are cases, however, in which the patient may not be suitable for the operation.
Bunion surgery can be particularly dangerous for certain types of patients , especially those with other medical conditions. This includes diabetics , overweight individuals , heavy smokers, and those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis . Particular attention is paid to these types of patients, who are considered at risk.
Advantages and disadvantages of traditional surgery
As with any other surgical procedure, traditional hallux valgus surgery also has its advantages , but also its disadvantages.
Its greatest advantage cannot be ignored: the definitive resolution of the pathology . This definitive resolution naturally results in the reduction , and often even the complete disappearance, of pain.
All this contributes to regaining control of one's health and improving the quality of life, which this pathology tends to lower.
Although hallux valgus surgery is often recommended, we cannot avoid listing the disadvantages.
Recovery times , for those who value their routine, are not the quickest. In fact, after the operation, the patient will have to rest for at least two weeks. They will then be able to begin moving and walking, but strictly with the aid of crutches and orthopedic shoes.
It is not only the recovery time that presents a potential disadvantage, but also the possible risks that should not be underestimated.
There is always a possible, albeit rare, risk of developing infections , but also of incurring a defect in the calcification of the bone , which may not heal correctly.
The risks and disadvantages, however, should not deter patients. By relying on skilled surgeons , following the appropriate therapies , and taking the right precautions, bunion surgery can be the right solution to this debilitating condition.
How to prepare for surgery
Once you have decided to undergo surgery, you will need to prepare for the procedure.
At least 1 or 2 months before the surgery, routine visits will be carried out , which include both an analysis of the condition of the big toe and the patient's general condition.
It is essential to take an X-ray of the affected foot, which you will then have to bring with you on the day of surgery.
Then there are drugs whose administration cannot be interrupted , while there are others that must be stopped.
Drugs for gastrointestinal, heart , endocrine and metabolic diseases, for example, are among those drugs whose intake should absolutely not be stopped.
For example, blood -thinning drugs usually need to be stopped or reduced . The decision rests with the attending physician , who, knowing the patient's clinical condition, may decide to interrupt administration for a certain period, reduce the dose, or replace the drugs.
Furthermore, fasting is mandatory from midnight the evening before the day of surgery.
It is always best not to take personal initiatives ; relying on the advice of your doctors is always the best option.
Traditional Hallux Valgus Surgery
Let's go into detail and see what traditional hallux valgus surgery consists of.
Half an hour before the start of the operation, the patient is anesthetized. This can be general or local , depending on the patient's clinical condition.
The surgeon then proceeds to make an incision in the foot , specifically on the affected part, that is, the big toe.
Once in front of the bony protrusion of the big toe, we proceed with its removal , followed by the repositioning of the big toe and its fixing , using plates or screws.
After having also realigned the tendons and the joint capsule , we proceed with suturing the incision.
The operation, including the anaesthetic phase, lasts from 1 to 2 hours.
The post-operative
After the operation, you will need to follow the appropriate therapy indicated by your doctor.
Initially you will have to rest for at least 2 weeks , and you will only be able to move with the help of crutches and orthopedic shoes.
At the first post-operative check-up, the stitches will be removed and after more than a month, approximately 35 days , you will be able to get rid of the orthopedic shoes and replace them with others that must necessarily be wide and comfortable.
After about two months , you can begin moderate physical activity . Four months after surgery, you can finally resume your normal routine ; for example, women can wear high heels again.
It is understood that all this will be possible if, and only if, the therapeutic path and the physiotherapy necessary for a complete recovery are followed.
Results and complications
Having opted for the surgical solution, it is normal that the patient will expect the best results: complete healing , the disappearance of pain and optimal aesthetics.
And that's exactly what the procedure promises to do: resolve the bunion problem and regain your health.
As we have already mentioned, however, the operation, like all other operations, can bring with it both a definitive solution and some complications and discomfort.
Infections and bone calcification defects are the most common complications following this surgery.
But there is no need to give up or be afraid.
The complications and discomforts are already taken into account by doctors and surgeons, which is why there are also appropriate therapies to manage them.
After surgery, in fact, there may be some swelling or even bleeding that could dirty the post-operative dressing. For both of these discomforts, it is recommended to keep the foot at iron rest , elevated and comforted with cold compresses.
A possible complication following surgery could be the development of physiological valgus: a condition in which a joint (in this case, likely the knee) tends to tilt inward. By notifying your doctor at the first signs of symptoms, he or she will be able to administer appropriate treatment.
SmartHallux: an innovative technique
SmartHallux boasts the presence of a team of specialized and professional surgeons , led by Dr. Luigi Manzi , an internationally renowned surgeon.
The hallux valgus surgery technique developed by SmartHallux is minimally invasive, functional and has short recovery times.
Thanks to the innovative techniques , the professionalism and expertise of the team, as well as the use of latest-generation instruments, Smarthallux has established itself as a leader in the treatment of foot and ankle pathologies.
How to book a visit to SmartHallux
Don't let bunions compromise the quality of your life.
Book your appointment with SmartHallux today and find out how we can help you restore your foot health.
Click here to book now and start your journey to a pain-free life.
