Bunions affect nearly three million people in the United States annually, and this foot issue is more common among women. If you have bunions, you know how painful they are and how they may harm your feet over time. Two surgical therapies for bunions are available: osteotomy and fusion surgery. Lapiplasty, a novel surgery for treating bunions, is one option. Consult dr. jordan cameron colorado springs for more information.
What is Lapiplasty?
Lapiplasty is a trademarked therapy that has shown significant effectiveness in bunion repair. Previously, the most typical bunion treatment was for a surgeon or podiatrist to shave off the excess bone on the bunion and then cut through the end of the big toe to realign the big toe bones. This technique, however, is unpleasant and not usually effective. It is also not a good option for those whose bunions return and necessitate surgery frequently.
Lapiplasty, instead of typical surgery, employs specific equipment to rotate the shifted bone back into its natural position. This straightens the toe and relieves discomfort. Titanium plating is then used to stabilize the shaky foundation, typically the primary cause of bunions.
How to recognize a bunion
A bunion is a raised hump on the outside of the big toe. It begins at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, which connects the toe to the foot. This foot ailment can lead your big toe to bend inward and even over the toe next to it over time. You may experience various symptoms of a bunion in addition to severe discomfort.
Signs of bunions
- The range of motion is restricted.
- Calluses or corns when your toes overlap
- Swelling, redness, or pain in the joint
Causes of bunions
- Foot anatomy passed down across generations
- Conditions like Rheumatoid arthritis, for example, cause your joints to enlarge.
- Shoes that do not fit correctly and/or cause toe cramps
- Deformities at birth
- Injuries to the feet
If you have one bunion, you will likely have more in the future, which is why Lapiplasty may be advantageous to patients with recurring bunions.
Lapiplasty recovery
Because Lapiplasty is an outpatient operation, you should be able to go home the same day. You will most likely be sent home in a walking boot to avoid putting too much weight on your foot. In the days following surgery, you may be prescribed a knee scooter that helps you travel long distances.
You should rest your foot as much as possible on the day of surgery and afterward. Try to limit your activity to only necessary movement and follow all of your doctor’s instructions.
