Podiatric Surgery
Keller Arthroplasty Surgery (Bunion Surgery) Introduction
This leaflet will explain what will happen when you come to the hospital for an operation to repair an arthritic bunion joint. Why do I need this surgery? This type of surgery is undertaken where there is an arthritic bunion joint which is painful. The operation involves removal of a piece of bone from the base of the big toe and removal of bone from the side of the metatarsal. This stops the bones grating on each other, and restores a degree of flexibility to the joint. The gap is normally filled by scar tissue but might result in some shortening of the big toe. The benefit of this operation is a fast recovery, with most people being able to wear wide shoes within two to three weeks. The main disadvantage is the potential for loss of grip of the big toe.
What does surgery involve? On the day of surgery you will be admitted to the ward and one of the nursing staff will check you in, take your blood pressure and perform any other tests that may be required. The surgeon will remind you of the surgical process and possible complications and ask you to sign a consent form. Your foot will be numbed via a series of injections around the ankle. You can eat before the operation as it is under local anaesthetic only. At some point during the morning/afternoon you will be escorted to theatre. The operation will take about 45 minutes. You may bring a personal music player or book with you. The bunion joint is accessed via an incision on the side of the big toe joint. The side of the bunion prominence and base of the big toe is then removed. The incision will be closed using non-dissolvable stitches.
Day vice
After the operation, you will be taken back to the ward and given a drink and something to eat. You will be advised on painkillers and once ready you will be discharged from the day surgery unit. You will be given a post-operative boot to wear. You should not drive after foot surgery and should be accompanied home by a responsible adult. You will be advised of your follow-up appointment date, either on the day or by letter in the post.
How will I feel afterwards? Although long-acting local anaesthetic administered during the procedure should control most of the pain for about eight to 10 hours, you can expect some pain or discomfort after the operation. Painkillers will be discussed with you prior to your operation and you should bring these with you on the day of surgery.
Recovering from surgery The first two days Restrict your activity to going to the toilet only. You will be able to stand and take weight on your heel. Bend your knee and ankle periodically to stimulate circulation. 1 PSI-2406-1713-12