There is a lot of talk about the lapiplasty procedure for bunion correction.  I think it is important to spend a minute and look at the history and what exactly the procedure is.  Then we can discuss the expectations after surgery.

The lapiplasty is based on the lapidus bunionectomy.  This is a procedure that was first described by Dr Paul Lapidus.  This surgical correction for bunions has been around for about 100 years.  It has been shown to be the most effective method to correct a bunion.  The trouble with it is it can be technically difficult to perform and has a long recovery.  Most of us foot and ankle surgeons trained utilizing this procedure especially if you trained on the West Coast.  Seattle, where I trained is the epicenter for the lapidus procedure. 

What is the lapidus procedure?  The procedure itself involves correcting a bunion at the apex of the deformity.  Most of us believe this is at the tarsometatarsal joint.  This is where the correction occurs with the lapidus and lapiplasty.  The procedure involves, releasing the 1^st metatarsal joint and sesamoid, correcting the metatarsal and then fusing the tarsometatarsal joint.  This fusion was the limiting step to recovery and this is where the lapiplasty surgical set has made steps to decrease healing times.  Their system utilizes a plate that allows early weight bearing.

Recovery for most patients undergoing a lapiplasty can be summarized as follows;

-First week couch potato, relax put your foot up

-Week two get your dressing changed

-Week three start weight bearing in the boot

-Week 6 begin to transition out of boot into normal shoe

-Month 3 back to full activities

If you have a bunion and would like to discuss the Lapiplasty make an appointment with me at 425-391-8666 or schedule an appointment online. 

Sincerely,

Dr Brandon Nelson

Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon

Bunions are by far the most common surgical procedure I perform.  At this point in my career after practicing more than 10 years, I have performed thousands of bunion procedures.  Bunion surgery itself is a highly successful procedure that has great outcomes and patient satisfaction.

The 3-D bunion correction or lapiplasty is a great tool that has accelerated the bunion surgery techniques.  I find the procedure itself can be easily reproducible and has great long-term success.  This is a great tool for large bunions and for patients that have had long-standing bunion deformities.  It is important to see somebody but has experience performing this technique, because there are some technical challenges.

The Lapidus or lapiplasty is a most common bunion procedure I perform and I have found it to be extremely powerful surgical tool.  If you have a long-standing bunion deformity and have had pain and irritation and are contemplating surgical reconstruction please make an appointment.  I will happily review your x-rays and possible surgical options.

Sincerely,

Brandon Nelson

Board-certified Foot and Ankle Physician and Surgeon