A bunion is a bone growth on the outer portion of the great toe where the toe meets the foot. Bunions occur over time as abnormal movements or increased pressure stresses the tendons in the joint. They can cause pain and decreased movement in the toe. A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat the condition and relieve the pain from the bunion. During the procedure, a physician may break the toe to realign it, shave down the bony growth and place plates and screws to join the joint together. Complications may occur following the operation.
Infection
An infection may occur in the incision after a bunionectomy. To help prevent an infection the individual needs to keep the wound clean and dry until fully healed. Changing wet or soiled bandages will help prevent an infection. Symptoms of an active infection following a bunionectomy include increased pain at the surgical site, drainage or bleeding from the incision or redness around the incision. Antibiotics can help treat a postoperative infection.
Swelling and Pain
Following surgery, an individual may continue to experience swelling and pain. The swelling may last for six to nine months following the operation; elevating the foot on pillows may help decrease the amount of swelling, suggests MedlinePlus. Using a walker, cane or crutches can help with mobility and help relieve pain while walking following surgery. The surgeon will prescribe pain medications following the surgery to assist with pain relief. The pain following a bunionectomy may become chronic.
Decreased Wound Healing
Individuals who have medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes may have difficulty healing following surgery for the removal of a bunion. These conditions can cause a decreased amount of blood flow to the foot, which can delay healing. An infection in the wound can also delay healing. Smoking can also increase the time needed for the wound to heal.
Injury to Area
During the bunionectomy surgery, damage may occur to surrounding areas of the foot and lead to complications. The surgeon may damage nerves in the area. Damage to the nerves can cause permanent numbness in the big toe. Excessive amounts of bleeding can occur during or following the surgery. Direct pressure to the wound may help stop any postoperative bleeding. A deformity may occur to the toe or foot from the surgery and cause the foot to feel stiff with decreased mobility of the toe.
Hallux Varus
Hallux varus is an overcorrection of the big toe that forces the toe to point away from the other toes. This condition occurs when moving around the tendons during the operation or from removing the sesamoid bone in the ball of the foot, according to The Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction at Mercy. Further surgery may be required to treat the condition if it is severe, causing stiffness or major deviation.
