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 1st 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,
Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon
