Hallux valgus

Complaints Hallux valgus

Hallux valgus is a crooked big toe joint.Due to this condition a painful bump or bunion is often formed on the inside of the big toe. This bump can sometimes become inflamed and is often cumbersome when wearing shoes. In the long run the big toe can become partially dislocated, combined with a deterioration of the deformity and progressive arthritis.

Treatment

The operation is performed under general anesthesia.
An incision will be made on the inside of the big toe and the forefoot. An osteotomy is performed on the first metatarsal as well as on the first phalanx. This is fixed with screws and staples and sometime with plate for stabilization.
After surgery a temporary bandage will usually be applied. It will be replaced by a removable splint before your discharge from the clinic (Chevron technique).You will get a plaster cast shoe, which will allow you to stand immediately.

Preparation

How to prepare for your operation

First you visit the doctor's assistant or anesthesiologist. She will discuss with you what will happen before, during and after the treatment and the various forms of anesthesia and pain management, both during and after surgery. More information about anesthesia, you can read here.
The day of surgery is scheduled. You can return home on the on the same day of surgery.
You should borrow crutches as you will need them to walk for a few days following your surgery. For more information: www.thuiszorgwinkel.nl
After the surgery it may be needed to use crutches for a certain period. Contact your physical therapist for advice.

The day of surgery

You should bring your crutches and personal items such as medicines. You wear comfortable clothing and shoes and leave valuables at home as much as possible.

You appear sober at the clinic
After preparation you will positioned and treated in the operating room.
After surgery you will be moved to the recovery room.
The physical therapist will explain how you can exercise at home so recovery will be as smoothly as possible. It is important to follow the instructions carefully after you return home.
When you are restored sufficiently, the surgeon or anesthesiologist will agree with your dismissal.
Be sure to have someone with you to drive you home.

Complications

The following complications are possible after hallux valgus surgery, among others.

Wound infection Pin tract infection
Deep vein thrombosis, phlebitis and lung embolism: Despite the administering of anticoagulants this complication can sometimes occur. A blood cot forms in a vein and travels to the lungs (embolism). The patient has to be admitted to hospital for anticoagulant therapy that will be continued at home by means of medicines.
Loss of sensation Pseudarthrosis or the inadequate healing of bones: Despite the best fixation techniques the bones sometimes do not want to heal properly. Additional surgery will then be required.

Expectations

You can expect that the toe is corrected and the pain disappeared after surgery. However you must realize that foot surgery is often perceived as painful and recovery can last very long. Your surgeon will discuss with you the expected result.

Frequent asked questions (FAQ)

How long does the surgery of hallux valgus?
The operation takes about 45-60 minutes.

Is a cast used after hallux valgus correction?
No, if a so-called chevron osteotomy can be performed, you will be post-treated with a removable splint

I have no pain in my hallux valgus, but I find it cosmetically disturbing; this is a reason to operate?
No, the risk of pain caused by surgery and the risk of complications do not justify the intervention of a hallux valgus

Hallux valgus surgery is always necessary or an insole / shoe alignment also functional?
A shoe adjustment is the first treatment. Only when non-surgical treatments fail surgery is chosen.