Minimally Invasive Osteotomy for Bunion Correction: Surgical Technique and Results

Introduction

Do you have a painful bump on the inside of your big toe? That’s called a bunion, also known as hallux valgus. Bunions can cause big toe pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. For many, surgery becomes the best option to relieve pain and restore proper foot function. While traditional surgery has been effective, a modern approach called minimally invasive surgery (MIS) offers smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery. Let’s explore how minimally invasive osteotomy (MIO) corrects bunions and what you can expect from this innovative technique.

What Are Bunions?

A bunion is a bump that forms at the base of your big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. The big toe drifts toward the smaller toes, creating a visible deformity.

Causes and Symptoms

• Causes: Genetics, wearing tight or pointed shoes, flat feet, or arthritis.
• Symptoms: Pain, swelling, redness, difficulty fitting into shoes, and changes in toe shape.

When Should You Consider Surgery?

If your bunion causes persistent pain, limits daily activities, or worsens over time, surgery may be the best option to restore comfort and mobility.

Different Types of Bunion Surgery

There are several types of bunion surgeries, and the choice depends on the severity of the deformity and your lifestyle needs.

Traditional Surgery

Traditional open surgery involves larger incisions and a longer recovery time. While effective, it often leaves visible scars and can be more invasive. The common type of open procedure names includes a Mann procedure, Lapidus, Chevron, Scarf, and many others.

Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

Minimally invasive techniques use tiny incisions and specialized tools to realign the bones and correct the bunion. This approach reduces tissue damage, leading to faster recovery and minimal scarring.

Key techniques include:

• Chevron Osteotomy: A V-shaped cut in the bone to correct alignment.
• Akin Osteotomy: Adjusts the angle of the big toe to ensure proper alignment.
• Transverse Osteotomy:  A horizontal cut in the bone to straighten the toe.

The Surgical Technique: Minimally Invasive Osteotomy

Pre-Operative Evaluation

Your surgeon will evaluate your bunion using physical exams and X-rays to plan the procedure. They’ll discuss your expectations, risks, and recovery timeline.

The Surgical Procedure

• Incisions: Tiny incisions less than 1 cm long are made to minimize tissue disruption.
• Bone Cutting and Realignment: Specialized tools and X-ray guidance are used to make precise cuts and realign the bones.
• Fixation: Small screws or plates stabilize the corrected bones, ensuring proper healing.

Post-Operative Care

After surgery, you’ll follow a recovery plan that may include:

• Wearing protective shoe(s) or boot.
• Gradually resuming weight-bearing activities.
• Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility.

Results and Patient Outcomes

Minimally invasive osteotomy has shown excellent results, with patients reporting:

• Reduced pain and swelling.
• Faster return to normal activities—often within 6-8 weeks.
• High satisfaction rates and long-lasting correction of deformity.
• Minimal scarring and a more natural foot appearance.

While complications like infection, nerve damage, or recurrence are rare, your surgeon will guide you on how to reduce risks.

Take the Next Step

If you’re struggling with a bunion, it’s time to explore your options. Minimally invasive osteotomy could be the solution you need to walk comfortably and confidently again.

Schedule a consultation with a foot and ankle specialist at Rothman Orthopaedics to learn more about the best bunion surgery types for your needs.