Bunion surgery has progressed significantly since its inception. Years ago, it was not uncommon for patients to stay overnight in the hospital if they had bunion surgery.  Often times patients would spend days in the hospital and be in a cast and nonweightbearing for months.  However this is a very rare occurrence these days and the majority of procedures are performed in an outpatient setting and very rarely is there an extended period of nonweightbearing.  This evolution of bunion surgery has allowed for minimally invasive surgeries to become more commonplace.

Minimally invasive refers to making significantly smaller incisions than we’ll we typically do for bunion surgery.  The average bunion can now be performed with minimally invasive surgery through an approximate 2 cm incision.  The advantages of minimally invasive surgery is it allows for a quicker recovery and increased healing capacity.  The majority of people will heal more quickly than the traditional open bunion procedure and will have less pain.

It is important to note that not every patient is a candidate for minimally invasive bunion surgery as it depends on other factors including overall foot structure and size of the bunion.  It is important to have a thorough evaluation and workup for considering bunion surgery, any type of bunion surgery including minimally invasive.  If you’re having bunion pain please contact my office and we will be able to get to an appointment and have your bunion evaluated. Give us a call at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online today. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Brandon Nelson

Board-certified Foot and Ankle Physician and Surgeon

A bunion is a common forefoot condition that can be characterized by mild, moderate or severe and defined as a deviation of the big toe in the lateral direction.  This condition is progressive and can lead to pain and discomfort with walking and exercise. Conservative measures are not usually successful. The traditional approach consists of an open incision and dissection of the foot that involves balancing of soft tissues and bony deformities.  The procedure itself is highly successful but there is question as to whether more minimally invasive type accessible.

Minimally invasive bunion surgery has been around for years and as this technique is getting better, this becomes more of a promising type procedure.  The literature is full of different types of minimally invasive bunion surgeries that can be used correct the foot.  Some of the most promising new or techniques utilize screw or pin fixation and has become highly successful.

All done under direct live x-ray and results have been extremely positive.  Majority of patients are weightbearing immediately after surgery and can return to normal shoes in 3-4 weeks.  This is because of the soft tissues had minimal interruption and vascularity preserved.  Minimally invasive bunion surgery shows promising results and can provide a fast return to activities.

If you’re suffering from bunion deformity and would like to discuss minimally invasive bunion procedure, call 425- 391-8666 or make an appointment online today. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Brandon Nelson
Board-certified Foot and Ankle Physician and Surgeon