Bunion surgery in Wrocław
Bunion surgery (for hallux valgus) corrects the alignment of the metatarsal and big toe bones. Depending on the deformity, different osteotomy techniques are used (for example Chevron or Scarf), and the bones are fixed with titanium screws that usually do not need removing. The operation takes about 60-90 minutes; at Luna Clinic in Wrocław it is performed by Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD.
Bunion surgery (for hallux valgus) corrects the alignment of the metatarsal and big toe bones. Depending on the deformity, different osteotomy techniques are used (for example Chevron or Scarf), and the bones are fixed with titanium screws that usually do not need removing. The operation takes about 60-90 minutes; at Luna Clinic in Wrocław it is performed by Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD.
What does the procedure involve?
Hallux valgus (bunion) surgery corrects a forefoot deformity in which the big toe deviates towards the other toes, creating a painful bulge. The procedure restores the correct axis of the bone, eliminates pain and improves the appearance and comfort of walking. Modern techniques allow a faster return to fitness.
The most common indications for the procedure:
Preparation for the procedure:
Orthopaedic consultation and assessment of the deformity (clinical examination + foot X-ray)
Laboratory tests (blood count, glucose, electrolytes, blood clotting)
Anaesthesiological consultation - the procedure may be performed under conduction or general anaesthesia
Stopping anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory medications (after consultation)
On the day of the procedure you should come fasting, with comfortable clothing and a change of footwear
Course of the procedure
The operation takes about 60-90 minutes and consists in the surgical correction of the alignment of the metatarsal bone and the big toe.
Depending on the degree of deformity, various osteotomy techniques are used (e.g. Chevron, Scarf, Weil)
After the correct alignment of the bones, they are stabilised with titanium screws (which do not require later removal).
The patient can go home when the doctor, having checked their condition after the operation, gives the go-ahead.
Recovery and post-procedure recommendations:
For 6 weeks you should walk in a special shoe that offloads the front of the foot
Limiting walking to a minimum in the first week after the operation
The leg should be elevated above heart level (e.g. on a pillow) as often as possible
Removal of the sutures after about 10-14 days
Rehabilitation: range-of-motion and strengthening exercises - started after 4-6 weeks
Check-ups: 2, 6 and 12 weeks after the operation
Return to normal footwear usually after 6-8 weeks
Swelling, haematoma, wound infection
Irritation of the cutaneous nerve - a feeling of numbness (usually temporary)
Adhesions or joint stiffness
Persistent pain in the absence of rehabilitation
Recurrences of the deformity (rarely - with improper biomechanics or footwear)
At Luna Clinic the procedures are performed in sterile operating conditions by an experienced orthopaedist - Dr Krzysztof Ciechan, which minimises the risk of complications.
Frequently asked questions
What does bunion surgery involve?
The operation corrects the axis of the big toe: an osteotomy is most often performed, i.e. a precise cutting and repositioning of the bone with screw stabilisation, along with soft-tissue plasty. The result is a straight, functional and painless foot.
When does a bunion qualify for surgery?
When the deformity hurts, hinders walking and the choice of footwear, corns and calluses form, and conservative treatment (insoles, separators, physiotherapy) brings no improvement.
How long does bunion surgery take?
Usually 60-90 minutes, under subarachnoid or regional anaesthesia. The doctor sees how you feel after the operation and decides when you can go home.
Do you walk in a cast after bunion surgery?
Usually not - modern osteotomies stabilised with screws allow you to walk from the first days in a special offloading shoe (Barouk type), without a cast or crutches.
How long does recovery after bunion surgery take?
The post-operative shoe is worn for 4-6 weeks, a return to sedentary work is possible after 2-3 weeks, to normal footwear after 6-8 weeks, and to sport after about 3 months.
Does bunion surgery hurt?
The procedure itself is painless thanks to anaesthesia, and the post-operative pain - usually moderate - is well controlled by medications and elevation of the foot. The greatest discomfort passes in the first week.
Can a bunion return after surgery?
With a properly chosen technique and adherence to recommendations, recurrences are rare. The risk is increased by: narrow high-heeled footwear, transverse flatfoot without insoles and connective tissue diseases.
Can both feet be operated on at the same time?
It is technically possible, but we usually recommend staging with an interval of a few weeks - one functional foot makes moving around during healing much easier.
How to prepare for bunion surgery?
Weight-bearing X-rays of the feet, pre-operative tests and anaesthesiological qualification are needed. Prepare an offloading shoe, plan transport and home help for the first days.
When are the sutures removed and how to care for the wound?
We usually remove the sutures after 14 days. Until then the wound must be dry and clean; the foot should be elevated and dressings changed according to the recommendations.
What are the possible complications of bunion surgery?
Rarely: infection, delayed bone union, temporary swelling and stiffness of the big toe, recurrence of the deformity, irritation from the screws requiring their removal. The operator’s experience minimises the risk.
How much does bunion surgery cost in Wrocław?
Bunion surgery starts at PLN 7,000 in our price list; the final amount depends on technique and extent.
Is it covered by the NFZ (Polish public health insurance)?
Luna Clinic treats patients privately. Bunion surgery is funded by the NFZ (Polish public health insurance) in orthopaedic departments, usually after a referral and a waiting list that varies by hospital.
Indications - is this procedure for you?
The most common reasons patients come for the “Bunion surgery” procedure:
- Pain limiting daily activity, work or sleep.
- Mobility limitation, instability or “catching” in the joint.
- Insufficient improvement after conservative treatment and rehabilitation.
Contraindications
Effects - when and for how long?
Effect: a straight, painless big toe after bone union. Durability: lasting with adherence to recommendations.
Safety and possible complications
As with any operation, the following are possible - though rare: haematoma, infection, sensory disturbances in the operated area, scar hypertrophy or the need for another procedure.
We minimise the risk at every stage: a sterile procedure suite, an experienced anaesthesiology team, careful qualification and post-operative monitoring. You have the right to know every aspect of the procedure - at the consultation we will discuss them honestly and without haste.
Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD
A specialist in orthopaedics and traumatology of the locomotor system with over 13 years of experience in trauma and orthopaedic surgery. A doctor of medical sciences, a graduate of the Wrocław Medical Academy; he also gained practice in hospitals in the United Kingdom, combining modern treatment techniques with an individual approach to the patient.
Take the first step
Book a consultation - an honest conversation about expectations, possibilities and the treatment plan.
Bunion surgery: price and consultation
Bunion surgery costs from PLN 7,000 at Luna Clinic. The price depends on the technique, whether one or both feet are treated, and any other deformities such as hammer toes. The plan is set at an orthopaedic consultation.
How to book
Call +48 666 850 666 (Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00) or send the consultation form. All prices: Luna Clinic price list.
Where we are
Consultation and surgery: Luna Clinic, ul. Władysława Syrokomli 46, 51-141 Wrocław, Poland - in the Karłowice area of the Psie Pole district. There is parking for patients by the clinic. Directions and map