A bunion is a painful condition involving a deformity of the foot. The joint that connects the big toe to the foot forms a bump--made up of bone and tissue--on the outer portion of the joint. The big toe may also push toward the smaller toes. The causes of bunion creation include pointed toe shoes, arthritis and heredity. Because of improper fitting shoes, women suffer from bunions, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Surgery may be necessary to remove the bump on the joint and to realign the big toe. Although complications are rare, they may occur following bunion surgery.
Continued Pain
Pain is the leading cause for having bunion surgery--and pain may still exist after surgery for a few months. Pain may last longer and not improve following the surgery.
Nerve Damage
If damage occurs to nerves in the foot during bunion surgery, the toe experiences numbness and tingling following the operation. This condition might not improve, and continued numbness may continue indefinitely.
Infection
Following surgery, the surgeon places a bandage over the surgical incision. It's important to keep the bandage clean and dry, especially while bathing. Placing plastic bags over the area helps keep the surgical site dry. After two weeks, the surgeon removes the stitches from the wound. Continuing to keep the area clean and dry during healing is important. If the area becomes soiled or the wound doesn't get proper care, an infection may occur. Signs of a postoperative wound infection include fever and chills, redness around the wound, draining coming from the site and an increase in pain.
Blood Clot Risks
Decreased movement and less walking may increase the risk of developing blood clots in the legs following surgery. The blood clots can break free and travel to a vital organ such as the lungs, heart or brain and cause permanent damage or death. Swelling, redness or warmth in the calf are symptoms of a blood clot.
