Lapidus Bunionectomy
This procedure is used to correct a bunion, a bony bump at the base of the big toe caused by excess bone growth and/or misalignment of the foot and toe bones. Learn more about lapidus bunionectomy procedures, techniques, and recovery.
What You Need To Know About a Lapidus Bunionectomy
What Is a Lapidus Bunionectomy?
A lapidus bunionectomy procedure is used to correct a bunion, which is a bumpy deformity caused by abnormal bone growth and misalignment of the metatarsal bones in the foot. This condition can be very painful when walking or doing other necessary daily activities.
A lapidus bunion surgery restores the natural formation of the big toe by relocating the metatarsal bone back into position. While not every patient with a bunion will require this procedure, it is very effective in fixing moderate to severe bunions.
Why Is a Lapidus Bunionectomy Performed?
A lapidus bunionectomy may be necessary for patients who are experiencing very severe bunions. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it's a good idea to seek treatment from a Resurgens foot physician.
A painful bump on the inner part of the big toe
Difficulty or inability to wear shoes
Hypermobility in the toe joint
Little to no improvement after non-surgical treatments
How To Prepare For a Lapidus Bunionectomy
Before your lapidus bunion correction, your Resurgens foot doctor will give you a list of directions to prepare for surgery. On the day of the surgery, you will meet with the surgeon, who will talk you through the procedure and answer any questions you may have. You will also meet the anesthesiologist, who will talk to you about the anesthetic that will be used and administer it.
What Happens During a Lapidus Bunionectomy?
During a lapidus bunion surgery, the surgeon will make a small incision to access the bunion. They will trim the excess bone growth away from the metatarsal, eliminating the deformity. If necessary, they will make an incision in the tendon that is pulling the bone in the wrong direction.
Then, the surgeon will reposition the metatarsal bone against the cuneiform bone, which is located at the point where the toe meets the foot. They will use screws or pins to attach these bones together. During the healing process, these bones will fuse together and restore function in the foot.
Are There Risks Associated With a Lapidus Bunionectomy?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some associated risks. Some lapidus bunionectomy complications include:
Permanent stiffness
Infection
Delayed healing
Nerve damage
Numbness
Weakness
Before getting the procedure, ask your physician about the risks of lapidus bunion correction.
Lapidus Bunionectomy Recovery
When the procedure is complete, the incision is closed, and the foot is bandaged and placed in a cast for six to eight weeks. The cast may be replaced by a walking boot for an additional two to four weeks while the foot heals. Swelling and discomfort are common for up to a year after surgery, but most patients can bear weight and wear shoes by 6-12 weeks.
Your physician will recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the foot and restore regular motion. A lapidus bunionectomy can effectively eradicate bunions and get patients moving again.
Learn more about our bunion treatment options by visiting the Foot and Ankle Center at Resurgens Orthopaedics.