Bunions are often inherited and are produced by foot structure and function. As a bunion progresses, the big toe itself will shift toward the other toes. A bunion may represent a true localized growth of bone, a deviation of the 1st metatarsal bone, or a combination of both. Bunions start as small protrusions of bone behind the big toe. As a bunion progresses, the angle between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal increases, causing the 2nd and 3rd toes to "buckle" and become hammered. In severe cases, the big toe will actually overlap the second toe. They may also occur as a result of other factors. For example, women find that their foot size increases about one half size the birth of a child. This occurs as a combination of hormones released to help with birth and increased weight associated with pregnancy. Most bunions of a mild degree can be treated with functional orthotics.

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A bunion that is painful can sometimes be treated without surgery utilizing, functional orthotics, modifications of shoegear, oral anti- inflammatory medication, and physical therapy.

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Surgery
Bunion surgery is performed when a bunion is large and painful, or non responsive to conservative care, surgery is recommended. Outpatient surgery is recommended for severe bunions. The most common bunion surgery reduces the angle between the 1st and 2nd metatarsals. Depending on the nature and severity of the bunion, the surgeon will decide whether to perform the procedure in an office setting or a surgicenter. and whether to have the operation under local anesthesia or IV sedation, in which the patient is asleep during the operation and wakes up with the surgical procedure done and no pain. Within hours of the completion of the procedure, you will be home, pain free and ready for recovery.

Dr. M.A. Galluzzo a board certified foot surgeon, holds a patent for foot surgical instrumentation including bunion procedures. Many surgeons use permanent screws or wires in bunion procedures which can cause additional complications such as infection, gangrene and further corrective surgery is then necessary for the removal of these wires or screws. Utilizing Dr. M.A. Galluzzo's instrumentation, permanent wires or screws need not be used, thus, reducing the risks and hazards they present. Dr. Galluzzo has lectured nationally on his surgical procedures.

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Due to new advancements and techniques in bunion surgery, post-operative pain is usually minimal following the procedure.

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Pre-operative Bunion with Degenerative Joint Disease

Post-operative radiograph with Biopro implant