Minimally invasive (percutaneous) bunion correction is a technique to correct hallux valgus through very small incisions (3–4 mm) using specialised burrs and X-ray guidance, avoiding the larger incisions of traditional open surgery.
Through two to four tiny incisions (3–4 mm each), specialised burrs are used to cut the metatarsal bone under X-ray guidance. The bone is shifted into the corrected position and held with one or two small screws inserted percutaneously. Soft tissue releases are performed through the same small incisions. Bandaging in the corrected position helps maintain alignment. The operation takes 45–75 minutes.
Minimally invasive bunion correction is suitable for mild to moderate hallux valgus deformity. It offers potentially less post-operative pain, less swelling, better cosmesis (smaller scars), and the possibility of immediate weight-bearing in a post-operative shoe.
Wide footwear, bunion pads, toe spacers, orthotics, and night splints. These manage symptoms but do not correct the deformity.
Weight-bearing X-rays. Assessment of deformity severity. Day-case procedure.
Correction of the bunion deformity with minimal scarring. Studies show comparable correction to open techniques for mild to moderate deformity. Potentially faster recovery and less post-operative pain.
Forefoot swelling for several months.
The deformity may not be fully corrected.
Hallux varus (the big toe pointing inward).
First MTP joint stiffness.
Excessive heat from the burr can damage bone. Careful technique and irrigation reduce this risk.
Healing in a suboptimal position.
The osteotomy may not heal.
The bunion may recur over time.
Dorsal digital nerve causing numbness.
Pain under adjacent metatarsal heads.
Local ankle block, regional, or general anaesthesia.
Weight-bearing immediately in a post-operative flat shoe. Post-operative shoe for four to six weeks. Bandaging for six weeks to maintain correction. Normal footwear at six to eight weeks. Full recovery three to six months.
X-rays at two weeks and six weeks. Review at six weeks and three months.
For mild to moderate deformity, studies show comparable correction rates. The main advantages are smaller scars, potentially less pain, and faster early recovery. For severe deformity, open techniques may still be preferred.
Yes — most minimally invasive bunion corrections allow immediate weight-bearing in a post-operative shoe, unlike some open techniques that require non-weight-bearing.