Bunion surgery is performed to correct deformed bones of the big toe that cause pain and difficulty walking. Many bunions can be treated without surgical intervention, but over time the patient's condition may become so painful that his ability to walk and perform normal daily activities become compromised.
The surgery is usually performed in a same-day surgery setting by a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon. According to the National Institutes of Health, the surgeon makes an incision in the foot to expose the toe joint and bones, then repairs the bunion using screws, pins, plates or a cast to keep the bones in place. The surgeon may remove the damaged part of the joint or shave the bump off the joint. Sometimes tendons and ligaments are made longer or shorter as well.
Approximately 100 surgical options for bunion removal exist, and the associated risks vary with the type of procedure used. The American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that fewer than 10 percent of patients experience complications from bunion surgery. Possible complications include infection, nerve damage, recurrence of the bunion and continued pain. If complications occur, they can be treated but may affect the extent of the patient's recovery.
Infection
Infection is a risk of any surgical procedure. In bunion surgery, potential portals for the entry of bacteria include the surgical incision and--if used--the surgical pins used to stabilize the bones. Administering preoperative antibiotics and keeping the dressing dry and clean can prevent infection in the wound and, more rarely, in the bone.
Nerve Damage
Improper surgical technique during bunion surgery can cause damage to the dorsal cutaneous nerve of the foot, according to the Merck Manual. Local injection of corticosteroids and strapping the foot to immobilize it can relieve the pain caused by this injury.
Recurrence
Even if the bunion surgery is successful, the deformity may recur at a later time. If the bunion was caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, it can recur postoperatively if the patient fails to wear more appropriate footwear. Many patients have a strong family history of bunions and are therefore at risk for recurrence.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia, a condition marked by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, is caused by high impact activities, wearing tight shoes or not resting properly after bunion surgery, reports the Mayo Clinic. Patients experience sharp or shooting pain, numbness or tingling in the toes. Symptoms increase with activity. Treatment with ice and rest is usually effective.
