If you're suffering from bunion pain, you're not alone. Millions of people worldwide are affected by this painful foot deformity that causes the big toe to bend towards the other toes, creating a bony bump at the base of the toe. While there are many treatment options available for bunions, the most effective and long-lasting solution is lapiplasty bunion surgery. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what lapiplasty bunion surgery is, how it works, and the benefits it offers.

What is Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery?

Lapiplasty bunion surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that corrects bunion deformities at their root cause. The procedure involves realigning the bones of the big toe joint and fixing them in place using specially designed titanium plates, allowing the joint to heal in its corrected position. This results in a more stable and functional big toe joint, and the bunion bump is eliminated.

How Does Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery Work?

Lapiplasty bunion surgery is performed under local anesthesia, and patients can go home the same day. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision on the side of the foot and realigns the bones of the big toe joint using a guided cutting tool. Once the bones are in the correct position, the surgeon uses specialized titanium plates to secure the bones and stabilize the joint. The incision is then closed with sutures or surgical staples.

Benefits of Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery

There are several benefits to choosing lapiplasty bunion surgery over traditional bunion surgery or other non-surgical treatments. These benefits include:

Faster Recovery Time

With lapiplasty bunion surgery, patients can return to normal activities much faster than with traditional bunion surgery. In fact, many patients are able to walk on their foot the same day as the surgery.

More Stable Joint

Lapiplasty bunion surgery not only removes the bony bump but also corrects the underlying deformity of the big toe joint. This results in a more stable joint and reduces the risk of the bunion returning in the future.

Lower Risk of Complications

Lapiplasty bunion surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that results in fewer complications than traditional bunion surgery. There is also a lower risk of infection and a reduced need for pain medication.

High Success Rate

Lapiplasty bunion surgery has a high success rate, with studies showing that over 90% of patients report significant improvement in their pain and mobility after the procedure.

Who is a Good Candidate for Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery?

Lapiplasty bunion surgery is an excellent option for anyone suffering from bunion pain and deformity. However, it is not suitable for everyone. Patients with severe arthritis or other medical conditions that affect the foot may not be good candidates for this procedure.

Risks and Complications of Lapiplasty Bunion Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, lapiplasty bunion surgery carries some risks and potential complications. These include:

- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Swelling and bruising
- Allergic reaction to anesthesia
- Failure of the bone to heal properly

It is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your surgeon before deciding if lapiplasty bunion surgery is right for you.

Recovery and Aftercare

After lapiplasty bunion surgery, patients will need to wear a special boot for several weeks to protect the foot and allow it to heal properly. Most patients can resume normal activities within six to eight weeks of the surgery, but it is essential to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully during the recovery period. This may include regular physical therapy, icing the foot, and avoiding certain activities for a period of time.

Conclusion

Bunion deformities can be incredibly painful and frustrating to deal with, but lapiplasty bunion surgery offers an effective and long-lasting solution. By correcting the underlying deformity of the big toe joint, lapiplasty bunion surgery provides patients with a more stable and functional foot, reducing pain and discomfort and improving mobility. While the procedure does carry some risks, the benefits far outweigh them for most patients.

FAQs

Is lapiplasty bunion surgery painful?

Most patients report only mild discomfort after the procedure, and pain medication can be prescribed to manage any pain or discomfort.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure typically takes around an hour to complete.

Will I be able to walk on my foot immediately after the surgery?

Most patients are able to walk on their foot the same day as the surgery, but it is essential to follow your surgeon's instructions during the recovery period.

Is lapiplasty bunion surgery covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans cover lapiplasty bunion surgery, but it is essential to check with your provider to ensure coverage.

What is the success rate of lapiplasty bunion surgery?

Studies have shown that over 90% of patients report significant improvement in their pain and mobility after the procedure.

You may also like to read: Lapiplasty bunion surgery pros and cons