Hallux Valgus

Definition

Hallux Valgus, commonly referred to as a bunion, is a complex deformity of the great toe, first metatarsal, and cuneiform bones.  This often causes pain in the great toe, and can cause generalized pain in other parts of the foot as well.  It can cause difficulty with weightbearing activities like walking and running, and can cause trouble with fitting into shoes. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Hallux Valgus can include pain and/or swelling in the big toe, pain in the ball of the foot (metatarsal heads), ingrown toenails, callus formation, and other dysfunction of the forefoot.

Causes

Many cases of Hallux Valgus are the result of a person’s bone structure and foot shape.  Hallux Valgus is often caused by instability of the joints of the midfoot, a condition sometimes referred to as hypermobility.  It can also be the result of trauma, such as fractures of the big toe.  Other conditions that may lead to Hallux Valgus include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.  

Treatment

Mild cases of Hallux Valgus are typically treated nonoperatively, with shoe modifications, padding, and orthotics.  More advanced cases, or cases that fail initial nonoperative treatment, are typically treated with surgical reconstruction.  Procedures to address hallux valgus and associated conditions will depend upon the severity of the deformity, associated instability, and other variables.  This is typically determined from an examination by a foot and ankle surgeon as well as xrays.

Lapiplasty Procedure:

One of the recent advances that has occurred in bunion surgery is the development of the Lapiplasty procedure.  This procedure is based off of research that has been performed identifying the complexity of hallux valgus deformities, particularly focusing on the rotational instability associated with hallux valgus.  

In my practice, I have incorporated the Lapiplasty procedure, and have been performing this operation since 2019.  I have seen great results with this procedure, and I have been able to correct severe deformities in a predictable, efficient, and reproducible manner.  

Not all patients with bunions are candidates for the Lapiplasty, but I find that many are. 

Below are some examples of patients who have had excellent correction and great outcomes following a Lapiplasty procedure.