According to MayoClinic.com, a bunion is a bony growth that forms at the big toe joint. A bunion can grow and cause a misalignment of the other toes of the foot. Tight-fitting shoes, arthritis or an inherited birth defect commonly cause bunions. Bunions cause pain, swelling and inflammation in a patient. When symptoms get to the point that a patient can't walk, surgery may be necessary. Although complications are rare, a patient should be aware of possible complications and know what to do if they occur.
Infection
According to the American Academy or Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), fewer than 10 percent of patients experience complications from bunion surgery. However, infection is a possible complication because bacteria live on the skin, surgical tools and on the surrounding surgical field. Although sterile precautions are taken, bacteria may enter the wound site and cause infection. Bacteria can infect the surrounding skin, big toe joint or spread to the rest of the body. Thus, a patient should let his doctor know if he experiences excessive pain, warmth, redness and drainage from the wound site. In addition, he should seek immediate medical treatment if he experiences fever, chills or night sweats. These may be a sign of a serious systemic infection.
Nerve Damage
The AAOS says nerve damage may occur with bunion surgery. Thus, nerves that affect sensation and movement of the big toe can be damaged during surgery. Therefore, a patient should immediately let his surgeon know if he's experiencing numbness or is having difficulty moving the big toe. The AAOS says this complication may be treatable if immediately brought to the surgeon's attention.
Recurrence of the Bunion
The bunion may recur, or re-grow, the AAOS says. Bunions commonly recur if the patient returns to previous behavior that initially caused the bunion. Thus, patients should avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes. In addition, patients should follow all post-surgical instructions to prevent a bunion recurrence.
Pain
A patient may continue to experience pain after bunion surgery, the AAOS says. The surgeon may not be able to remove all inflamed tissue in the big toe joint, especially if the bunion was severe. Furthermore, the AAOS says that a patient should use a walking device for a few days and gradually put more weight on the foot as it heals. A patient who progresses beyond recommendations can damage the healing wound, which can lead to chronic pain.
