What Is Keyhole Bunion Surgery?

Keyhole bunion corrections were originally developed in France and the UK as a technique for correcting bunion (hallux valgus) deformities through tiny incisions of just 2–3mm on the side of the toe. This technique has revolutionised bunion surgery and is now available in Adelaide.

A bunion is an abnormal angulation of the bones of the great toe (hallux). There is often, but not always, a strong family history of the condition. Pain, difficulty with footwear, and cosmetic concern are the most common reasons patients seek treatment. Keyhole surgery allows correction to be performed with minimal scarring and a faster return to normal activity.

How Dr Smith Performs Keyhole Bunion Surgery

Dr Smith performs all bunion corrections using a keyhole technique. A specialised high-speed burr is used to re-align the bones through tiny 2–3mm incisions. An X-ray machine is used throughout the procedure to allow Dr Smith to visualise and guide the correction without the need for lengthy incisions in the foot. Small screws are used to stabilise the alignment, allowing patients to weight-bear and walk the same day.

Both feet can be corrected simultaneously in a single day-procedure setting.

Advantages of the Keyhole Technique

  • Quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery
  • Minimal scarring — 2–3mm incisions vs. several centimetres
  • Reduced post-operative discomfort
  • Day procedure — home the same day
  • One or both feet can be treated in a single operation
  • Immediate weight-bearing in a flat surgical shoe from day one

When Should You Consider Bunion Surgery?

Surgery may be appropriate if you experience any of the following:

  • Pain over the bunion itself
  • Pain through the ball of your foot
  • Difficulty fitting into normal footwear
  • Cosmetic concern
  • Development of hammer or claw toes
Patient satisfaction with keyhole bunion surgery is consistently high, with most patients returning to a wider range of footwear and activities they had previously avoided.

Recovery

Patients wear a flat surgical shoe for 3 weeks. Walking is permitted from day one, and most patients manage stairs and normal daily activities within days. Normal shoes are typically resumed at 6–8 weeks. Exercise such as cycling and swimming can resume at 6–8 weeks, jogging at 3–4 months, and full sport at 4–6 months. Some swelling is normal and may persist for 3–6 months.