How Is Lapiplasty® Different than Traditional Bunion Surgery?

Bunions are bony protrusions on the outer aspect of the big or little toe that cause pain and difficulty walking as they progress. Without early treatment, bunions often require surgical correction for optimal relief.

Traditional bunion surgery provides symptom relief, but it doesn't address the root cause of the issue. The only way to get permanent relief from a bunion without the risk of recurrence is through a Lapiplasty® 3D bunion correction.

At Phoenix Foot and Ankle Institute, Dr. Jeffrey E. McAlister and his team provide conservative approaches to bunions as well as Lapiplasty surgery. He's an experienced foot and ankle specialist helping patients regain their lives through a variety of helpful treatments.

The facts on traditional bunion surgery

A bunion, or hallux valgus, is an issue with the first metatarsal. The bone moves out of alignment due to inherited foot issues or ill-fitting shoes, causing a prominent bump on the outside of the big toe.

Over time, the bump gets worse, causing issues like pain, swelling, or redness. It can also make it difficult to walk or wear shoes. The only way to eliminate a bunion is through surgery.

Traditional bunion surgery alleviates symptoms but falls short in other areas. A traditional bunionectomy works, but has some downfalls that include:

Only addresses symptoms

Traditional bunion surgery addresses symptoms by removing the bump on the side of the toe. A surgeon cuts the metatarsal bone and realigns it, which is only a two-dimensional fix. The root of the problem still exists.

Longer recovery time

Bunion surgery usually results in a more extended recovery period, typically in a cast or rigid splint. You may not be able to bear weight on the surgical foot for several weeks.

Risk of recurrence

Because traditional bunion surgery doesn't address the actual deformity, there's a higher risk that it will come back. It may take months to years to return, but it could result in the need for another surgical procedure.

Leaves the joint unstable

Instability in the joint happens because traditional bunion surgery doesn't stabilize the joint that caused the bunion. Instability may allow the bunion to return even after surgery.

What is Lapiplasty 3D bunion correction?

Lapiplasty 3D bunion correction is a patented procedure that uses titanium plates and specialized instrumentation to treat bunions at the cause. Instead of only cutting and shifting the metatarsal bone to eliminate the signature toe bump, it stabilizes the joint that caused the bunion to form.

There are many benefits to Lapiplasty over traditional bunion surgery. It's the only procedure that ensures the bunion doesn't return due to joint stabilization with plates and screws.

It offers a long-term option to eliminate bunion symptoms without having to worry about future bunions or an extended recovery period.

How Lapiplasty differs from other procedures

The Lapiplasty procedure is an excellent option if your bunion progresses with conservative measures like footwear changes, padding, or orthotic devices. It offers many advantages over other types of bunion surgery, including:

Fixes the root of the problem

The root of the problem in a bunion is the unstable joint in the foot. Lapiplasty surgery corrects the instability, which addresses symptoms and keeps the bunion from reforming.

Reduces the risk of bunion reformation

Lapiplasty 3D bunion correction is the only way to ensure the bunion won't return. It addresses the joint instead of just the bump on the side of the toe to ensure stability in the foot.

Faster recovery

Recovery after Lapiplasty surgery is usually faster than traditional bunion surgery, allowing patients to bear weight within days of the procedure. You can generally return to activities faster after Lapiplasty, as well.

Comprehensive correction

Lapiplasty surgery offers a permanent correction to your bunion by using titanium plates to stabilize the joint for good. It's three-dimensional because it addresses the bunion in terms of width, rotation, and length.

Lapiplasty is an excellent tool we offer at Phoenix Foot and Ankle Institute. Call us today to discuss Lapiplasty 3D bunion correction surgery with Dr. McAlister, or request a consultation online.