- Surgery that is done using small incisions (cuts) and few stitches. During minimally invasive surgery, one or more small incisions may be made in the body. A laparoscope (thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing) is inserted through one opening to guide the surgery.
- Minimally invasive bunion surgery is an alternative to traditional surgery that can reduce post-surgical scarring, swelling, pain and offers patients the easiest recovery
- Minimal scar tissue, less post-surgical pain, scarring and swelling and faster healing. No damage to the tissues crossing the big toe joint, eliminating the complication of joint stiffness.
Benefits of Office Based Surgery
With office-based surgery, patients appreciate their procedure being performed in the facility to which they are accustomed. They like dealing with the same staff members they have seen during preoperative visits. This familiarity reduces anxiety and leads to a more comfortable experience.
Some of the advantages of office-based surgery include:
- Better patient experience: With office-based surgery, patients can avoid the hassle of hospital visits and enjoy a more comfortable experience 1.
- More convenient scheduling: Office-based surgery centers provide more flexibility in scheduling appointments, which can be more accommodating for patients 2.
- Lower costs: Office-based surgery can be less expensive than traditional hospital-based surgery, as it eliminates the need for hospital fees 3.
Before Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery
Here is what to expect pre-op as you prepare for minimally invasive bunion surgery:
- Take your relaxing medication 30-60 mins BEFORE the procedure
- Wear comfortable clothes for the procedure
- Bring whatever media you want (phones, tablets, headphones) or deal with hearing Dr. Isiorho sing!
- Once comfortable, you will get a nerve block to make your foot numb
Right after the procedure
Immediately following the procedure, a special orthopedic shoe will be placed on your foot and when you are comfortable, you can go home with your chosen companion. You can place weight on the foot BUT, the foot will swell more if it is down; better to keep it elevated above your heart as much as possible. The bandage and orthopedic shoe should remain on until seen in the office. Crutches, walker or a wheelchair can be used, but MOST patients will not need them
Postoperative Course (Example)
– After surgery weeks 1: 1st follow-up in the office. Dressings will be changed, X-rays taken. You should begin gentle range of motion exercises of the ankle to prevent stiffness (see below). You can start to drive in the special orthopedic shoe ONLY (if the surgery was on your left side and you DO NOT DRIVE UNDER THE INFLUENCE) if you are able to control the car in an emergency. Can you stamp your foot on the brake? You should not take pain medication and drive! A toe spacer or strapping should be used most of the time. You may need some pain medication after the nerve block wears off. The orthopedic shoe or boot may be removed at night
– Weeks 2-4: 2nd follow-up in the office. May see the medical assistant. X-rays taken. You may begin preforming upper body exercises, walk for exercise, elliptical trainer or rowing machine but should remain in the orthopedic shoe OR a supportive shoe with added carbon-fiber insert for stability. A toe spacer or strapping/taping should be used most of the time. Continue to work on “range of motion” of the big toe (handout dispensed in clinic). May start physical therapy if stiff. You may take a bath if the incision is healed. Should not need pain medications
– Weeks 6-7: 3rd-4th follow-up in the office. May go into your own supportive shoes (if comfortable) and increase your activities. Continue working on big toe range of motion (see below). Can stop using the toe spacer or strapping/taping. Expect the foot to swell with activities
– Month 3: 4th follow-up in the office. May start running, wearing heels
Swelling in the foot is the last issue to resolve. This may take many months or even up to a year and a half to go away completely. Everyone heals at different rates so this general time-line may be changed and individualized. There are always risks with any surgery: infection, wound healing problems, scarring, swelling…these things, though very rare in minimally invasive surgery may occur and affect your post-operative course and outcome.
What to Expect
Is this the first time you have visited a podiatrist? Well, don’t worry. This handy guide will prepare you for your appointment and help make the most of your time with the foot and ankle expert.
Before You Visit
- Make a list of your symptoms and questions.
- Make a list of all medications and any previous surgeries.
- Gather and bring important medical records and laboratory test reports from other doctors or hospitals (including X-rays, MRIs, and lab results).
- Check with your insurance provider to see if a referral is needed.
- Call before your visit to tell the office if you have special needs.
- Bring a friend or family member if you think it will be helpful.
- If your problem involves walking and/or exercise, bring your walking/exercise shoes with you to the appointment.
During Your Visit
- Go over your list of questions.
- If you do not understand an answer, be sure to ask for further explanation.
- Take notes and listen carefully.
- Discuss your symptoms and any recent changes you may have noticed.
- Tell your podiatrist if you are pregnant or if you are trying to get pregnant.
- Let your podiatrist know if you are being treated by other doctors.
After Your Visit
- Prepare for any tests your podiatrist orders.
- Ask about what you need to do to get ready, possible side effects, and when you can expect results.
- Ask when and how the test results will be made available to you.
- Schedule a follow-up appointment (if necessary) before you leave your podiatrist’s office.
- Call your podiatrist’s office and ask for your test results if you do not hear from the office when you are supposed to.