Hallux Valgus Surgery / Big Toe Deformities Surgery
Hallux valgus is a condition affecting the big toe that results in dislocation and deformity. Physical therapy and splints cannot cure it, and the only solution is surgery. The surgery is tailored to the individual patient based on their medical history, genetics, and X-rays. Younger patients tend to recover faster after the procedure, while older patients may require more extensive surgeries and correction of other deformities.
What is Hallux Valgus?
Hallux means big toe in Latin. Valgus is the anatomical term used to describe the outward deterioration. Hallux valgus, as the word means, describes the orthopedic deformity that occurs in the big toe as a result of the outward angle of the first metacarpal bone. When neglected, deformities up to dislocations occur not only in the 1st finger joint but also in the 2nd finger.
What Causes Hallux Valgus?
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Genetic reasons
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Compression disorders due to foot anatomy
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Sole height or flat feet
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Using the wrong shoes
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Some sport branch
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Dancer’s foot deformities
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Obesity
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Achilles tendon shortness
What is Hallux Valgus Surgery?
Hallux valgus surgery is a procedure in orthopedics that is performed to fix the first metatarsal bone which has moved away from the forefoot due to hallux valgus deformity and to treat any other tissue issues related to the deformity.
How is Hallux Valgus Surgery Performed?
Hallux valgus surgery is a procedure that involves cutting the affected bone to correct the deformity. It is performed under general anesthesia and uses a motor to perform the osteotomy. The surgeon cuts the bone at the appropriate location, then fixes it in place using titanium implants and removes any bunions. The operation can be performed on both feet simultaneously, and its duration can vary depending on the treatment of other related issues such as nerve compression or bunions in other toes.
After Hallux Valgus Surgery
Hallux valgus surgery, although involving small bone incisions, is known to cause more severe pain compared to soft tissue surgeries. To mitigate this pain, pain management techniques such as ankle block anesthesia can be used to provide more comfort for the patient during the first day after the procedure.
However, with the use of modern surgical techniques and anesthetic solutions, hallux valgus surgery is not as painful as previously thought. After the procedure, the patient can expect to achieve a lifelong improvement in foot comfort. Normal foot health can be restored within a maximum of 6 weeks.