After the anesthesia has taken effect, a tourniquet or blood pressure cuff, will be used to temporarily stop the blood flow to the foot. This may be a cuff around the thigh or a tight band around the ankle. This allows the doctor to see the surgical area clearly.
To help reduce the chance of infection, the area will be scrubbed with a special soap, and will be covered with sterile sheets. The only area exposed will be the site where the procedure is being performed.
When the doctor feels that there is minimal or no arthritis in the joint and the angles measured on the x-ray are close to normal, a simple removal of the bunion can be performed.
To begin the procedure, a 2-3 inch incision on the inside of the foot, directly over the bunion, will be made. Once the bone is exposed, a small portion of the bone will be removed with a saw.
The capsule around the MTP joint and skin are then stitched back together and a bandage is applied.
