Considering or preparing for bunion surgery? Our team at Family Foot & Ankle Associates of Maryland in Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Silver Spring, Kensington, Laurel, and Maple Lawn, MD shares a quick guide below to help.
Guide to Bunion Surgery
Bunions don’t always cause symptoms. However, many people with bunions suffer from severe foot pain, inflammation, toe stiffness, and more. When these symptoms are present and negatively impact your life, bunion surgery is typically the best move. Below, our team at Family Foot & Ankle Associates of Maryland in Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Silver Spring, Kensington, Laurel, and Maple Lawn, MD shares the different types of bunion surgery, what to expect from the procedure, and what recovery looks like.
Osteotomy
An osteotomy is a procedure in which small cuts are made to the bones and plates, screws, or pins are placed to achieve proper alignment of the joint. This bunion surgery is typically combined with soft tissue techniques and procedures.
Exostectomy
An exostectomy involves shaving off the bunion from your toe joint. Typically, this procedure is combined with other procedures, as it doesn’t correct the problem on its own.
Arthrodesis
When bunions are severe and have arthritis inflammation, an arthrodesis is typically performed. The doctor removes the area of the joint that is arthritic. Screws are then utilized to hold the bones together.
Recovering From Bunion Surgery
In most cases, you’ll be sent home the same day as your procedure, but you’ll need someone to drive you home. Bunion surgeries typically take two hours or less, but every case is different.
Once home, it’s important to follow your aftercare instructions. These typically include being careful of your stitches, wearing a protective shoe or boot, and keeping your full weight off your foot. Additional instructions might apply.
Have more questions about your upcoming bunion surgery? Call today to speak to a member of our team at Family Foot & Ankle Associates of Maryland in Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Silver Spring, Kensington, Laurel, and Maple Lawn, MD. Call (301) 924-5044 for the office in Olney, MD, (301) 868-7670 for the office in Camp Springs, MD, (301) 439-0300 for the office in Silver Spring, MD, (301) 942-8110 for the office in Kensington, MD, and (301) 317-6800 for the offices in Laurel and Maple Lawn, MD.