Overview
This surgical procedure is performed to correct a bunionette, a bony bump on the outer side of the foot at the base of the fifth toe. The procedure removes this excess bone growth, eliminating the bump so that the bunionette does not press painfully against shoes.
Preparation
In preparation for the procedure, the patient is positioned and anesthesia is administered. The surgeon creates a small incision along the outer side of the foot to access the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, where the phalanx of the toe meets the head of the metatarsal. The bunionette is located on the head of the fifth metatarsal.
Removing The Bunionette
Once the bunionette is exposed, the surgeon uses a cutting instrument to carefully remove the bony protrusion. The surgeon smoothes and reshapes the edges of the bone.
End Of Procedure And Aftercare
When the procedure is complete, the incision is closed and the foot is bandaged. The patient will wear a special shoe for four to six weeks as the foot heals.
