Better Method, Best Conclusion

Due to the small incisions, minimally invasive bunionectomy has fewer side effects, a quicker recovery, and superior cosmetic outcomes.  In comparison to my patients who have the open technique, I’ve seen that those who get the minimally invasive procedure require less pain medication, have better great toe range of motion, and recover from the procedure and are able to wear standard shoes in half the time.

How does minimally invasive surgery for bunions function?

In minimally invasive bunion surgery, the bone is sliced with a burr rather than a saw. Instead of the lengthy incisions that are frequently utilized in conventional procedures, this enables the cuts to be made “percutaneously,” or through small incisions made through the skin of the foot.

Because fewer soft tissues (skin, muscle, joint capsule, etc.) are damaged by avoiding major incisions, the foot heals more quickly and less painfully. As a result, it is possible to bear weight right away and return to normal activity levels and bone repair more quickly.

Depending on how severe a patient’s bunion is, I can treat it using one of two minimally invasive techniques:

• I use the PECA, or Percutaneous Chevron Akin, treatment for bunions that are mild to moderate. To achieve alignment correction, the great toe bone and first metatarsal bone must be cut and repositioned.
• By using unique approach, we are able to treat the bunion in all three planes (including rotation). For this type of correction, I use a burr and place screws through tiny incisions, as opposed to the majority of surgeons who utilize a huge incision, a saw, and large plates. This procedure, like the PECA technique, enables early weightbearing with much less pain, a better aesthetic result, and a quicker return to work and athletics.