I remember performing my first bunion surgery over 15 years ago and was so excited to help my patient.  I also remember learning all the different types of bunion surgeries and how each one was slightly different.  It made me ponder why there were so many different types of bunion surgeries for one pathology.  It was about this time I was introduced to the Lapidus bunionectomy by an attending physician.  He discussed how this was his favorite procedure, how it provided great outcomes but was difficult to execute.

Well fast forward 15 years and now the Lapidus is one of the most common bunion surgeries in the United States.  Things have really changed with the Lapiplasty system.  A group of doctors worked with a medical device company to develop a series of gigs and clamps to make the Lapidus reproducible and easier to perform.  This has really revolutionized bunion surgery and I anticipate Lapidus will eventually be the most common surgery worldwide.

I feel lucky having trained in the Northwest as I am very familiar with the Lapidus procedure and even before the Lapiplasty system it was one of my go to bunion corrections. 

If you have a bunion, you know how uncomfortable they can be.  If you would like a consultation on your bunion I can help.  Call to make an appointment with me at 425-391-8666 or schedule an appointment online. 

Sincerely,

Dr Brandon Nelson

American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons

Dr Brandon Nelson, A Board-Certified Physician & Surgeon Discusses The Lapiplasty Bunion Procedure

Bunion and bunion pain affects millions of people per year.  It creates pain around your big toe and can decrease quality of life.  The pain can become so intense or make it difficult to wear shoes often people would like it removed.  Bunion surgery has been around for over 100 years however recently a new technique called the Lapiplasty has changed the recovery times and improved outcomes.

The lapiplasty is a 3-D bunion correction system that has helped to address the bunion at its origin.  This procedure works to stabilize the foot and realign the metatarsal bone.  It has been shown to have very low recurrence rates and great long-term outcomes. 

There are a few reasons it has proved to be a game changer.  One, is correcting the bunion deformity by fixing both the angular and rotational deformity of the bunion.  Two, it has a faster recovery over the traditional bunion surgery.  Three, it reduces complications including stiffness and improved joint stability.

I have found this new system to be revolutionary for my patients.  I find it to be the future of bunion surgery. If you would like a consultation on your bunion I can help.  Call to make an appointment with me at 425-391-8666 or schedule an appointment online. 

Dr. Timothy Young, a Board Certified Foot Surgeon, Discusses My Top 5 Reasons Why I Recommend the Lapiplasty Bunion Repair

Introduction

Bunions can be painful and disruptive, affecting the quality of life for many individuals. Traditional bunion surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, has been the standard approach for decades. However, in recent years, a groundbreaking surgical technique called Lapiplasty has emerged as a game-changer in the field of bunion repair. Surgeons worldwide are increasingly recommending Lapiplasty for several compelling reasons. In this blog, I will review the top 5 reasons why I recommend the Lapiplasty Procedure for bunion surgery.

1. Superior Three-Dimensional Correction

One of the most remarkable aspects of Lapiplasty is its ability to correct bunions in three dimensions, addressing the root cause of the deformity. Traditional bunion surgery often focuses on the visible bony bump, leaving the underlying bone misalignment uncorrected. Lapiplasty, on the other hand, repositions the metatarsal bone, restoring its proper alignment in all three planes—sagittal, transverse, and frontal. This three-dimensional correction not only provides better cosmetic results but also reduces the risk of bunion recurrence, making it a preferred choice among surgeons.

2. Faster Recovery and Reduced Downtime

Lapiplasty's minimally invasive approach and stable fixation results in faster recovery times for patients. Unlike traditional bunion surgery, which often requires patients to remain off their feet for an extended period, Lapiplasty allows patients to bear weight on their feet and start walking within days. This accelerated recovery can significantly improve a patient's overall experience and quality of life during the healing process.

3. Long-Lasting Results

Surgeons recommend Lapiplasty due to its track record of providing more durable and longer-lasting results. Traditional bunion surgery may offer temporary relief, but recurrence rates can be high. The Lapiplasty's comprehensive correction of the deformity decreases the likelihood of bunions returning, allowing patients to enjoy a more permanent solution to their foot pain.

4. Stable Fixation

The Lapiplasty utilizes very stable plates. These allow earlier weightbearing and return to activities. This fixation helps to promote optimal bone healing and long term stability. Surgeons who recommend Lapiplasty often highlight the fixation benefits of this innovative technique, which can boost patients' confidence and satisfaction with their results.

5. Evidence-Based Success

Surgeons have confidence in recommending Lapiplasty due to the strong evidence supporting its success. Numerous clinical studies and real-world cases have demonstrated the effectiveness of this procedure in addressing bunions, relieving pain, and improving patient outcomes. These data-driven results reassure both surgeons and patients that Lapiplasty is a reliable and proven treatment option.

Conclusion

Lapiplasty has revolutionized the field of bunion repair with its three-dimensional correction, quicker recovery times, long-lasting results, stable fixation, and evidence-based success. Surgeons worldwide recommend Lapiplasty as a superior alternative to traditional bunion surgery for patients seeking a more comprehensive and permanent solution to their foot pain. If you're considering bunion repair, please contact my office so I can evaluate your specific needs and discuss the benefits of Lapiplasty as a potential solution to your bunion woes.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, give us a call at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online today. 

Dr Brandon Nelson, Discusses the Lapiplasty Procedure for The Best Possible Correction of a Bunion

Bunions can be quite painful for people especially as they get larger and make it difficult to fit in shoes.  Bunions tend to get bigger as time goes on and eventually push the other toes out of alignment.  But what can be done to stop the bunion or even slow it down?

Many people want to know what can be done from a conservative standpoint to slow a bunion.  I have seen all sorts of devices to pull the toes around to try and straighten a bunion.  But, it should be known that the bunion is a bony pathology that is related to a change in position of the bone.  This makes it impossible to apply something to the outside of the foot to fix a bone on the inside.  However, there are a few things that can slow down a bunion.  Most important is to understand a bunion gets larger the more pressure that is exerted on it. 

Meaning the more you walk the bigger the bunion gets.  This is where conservative therapy begins.  The best now measure to intervene here is a prescription orthotic for bunion correction.  I am not talking about an insert from a shoe store or online this must be done by a physician.  This is a prescription medical device where biomechanical measurements and 3-D measurements of the foot are taken.  The good news about this is most insurances cover this device as long as it is prescribed by your foot and ankle physician. 

Surgical correction is the ultimate stop gate to the bunion getting bigger.  There are many options for surgical correction but the one moving to the forefront of medicine today is the Lapiplasty.  This procedure is based upon the Lapidus which has been utilized for almost 100 years.  This is a tried and true method for getting amazing bunion correction and providing lasting results.  If you have a bunion I can help.  Give me a call at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online today.

Sincerely,

Dr Brandon Nelson

Dr Timoth Young, Board Certified Foot Surgeon talks about Lapidus and Lapiplasty Fixation: Advancements in Foot and Ankle Surgery Part 2

Benefits of Lapidus and Lapiplasty Fixation:

1. Improved Alignment: Both procedures aim to correct the alignment of the foot bones, which not only relieves pain but also helps restore normal foot function.

   Faster Recovery: Lapidus and Lapiplasty procedures enable patients to return to weight-bearing activities sooner than traditional methods, reducing downtime.

   Reduced Risk of Recurrence: Lapiplasty fixation, in particular, targets the underlying cause of bunions, reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

   Long-Term Results: The fusion achieved through these fixation methods creates stable and lasting joint alignment, offering enduring relief from pain and discomfort.

   Minimal Soft Tissue Disruption: These procedures typically involve less disruption of soft tissues, leading to reduced scarring and a potentially smoother recovery process.

Conclusion: Lapidus and Lapiplasty fixation procedures are innovative approaches to correcting foot and ankle deformities, especially bunions. With their focus on achieving proper bone alignment and stability, these procedures offer patients improved quality of life, reduced pain, and faster recovery times. If you're experiencing foot and ankle issues, consult a qualified orthopedic surgeon to determine whether Lapidus or Lapiplasty fixation could be the right solution for you. Always remember that personalized medical advice is crucial before making any decisions regarding surgical interventions.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, give us a call today at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online. 

Dr Timoth Young, Board Certified Foot Surgeon talks about Lapidus and Lapiplasty Fixation: Advancements in Foot and Ankle Surgery Part 1

Introduction: Foot and ankle disorders can significantly impact a person's quality of life, affecting their ability to walk, stand, and perform daily activities. Over the years, surgical techniques and technologies have evolved to address these issues effectively. One of the notable advancements in foot and ankle surgery is the Lapidus and Lapiplasty fixation procedures. In this blog, we'll delve into what these procedures are, how they work, and their benefits for patients.

Lapidus Fixation: The Lapidus procedure, also known as the first tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint arthrodesis, is a surgical technique designed to correct deformities in the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform bones of the foot. This procedure is commonly used to treat conditions such as hallux valgus (bunions) and hypermobility of the first TMT joint. The primary goal of the Lapidus procedure is to achieve stability in the joint, alleviate pain, and improve the alignment of the foot.

During the Lapidus procedure, a surgeon makes an incision on the top of the foot near the first TMT joint. The joint is then realigned, and screws or other fixation devices are used to hold the bones in their corrected positions. Over time, the bones fuse together, creating a stable and properly aligned joint. This fusion eliminates the pain associated with joint movement and provides long-lasting relief.

Lapiplasty Fixation: The Lapiplasty procedure is a modern advancement in foot surgery that specifically targets bunions by addressing the root cause of the deformity. Unlike traditional bunion surgeries that focus on removing the bony bump, the Lapiplasty procedure aims to correct the misalignment of the metatarsal bone responsible for the bunion formation. This technique not only provides a more aesthetic result but also reduces the risk of bunion recurrence.

During the Lapiplasty procedure, a surgeon makes a precise cut in the metatarsal bone to realign it to its proper position. Specialized instrumentation is used to stabilize the bone, and fixation plates and screws are inserted to secure the corrected alignment. This approach allows patients to bear weight on the treated foot shortly after surgery, resulting in a faster recovery compared to traditional methods.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, give us a call today at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online. 

Bunions are one of the most painful foot conditions for patients that are active and can be extremely challenging for shoe gear.  This is related to the fact that the forefoot begins to widen, and the 1^st metatarsal phalangeal joint can become dislocated.  If you are experiencing these issues, it could be time to consider fixing the problem permanently. 

Bunion surgery techniques have changed dramatically over the last 5 years.  This is primarily due to the advent of Lapiplasty.  Historically the Lapidus bunion procedure has had an outstanding result.  However, the limiting factor was recovering times.  The new Lapiplasty system has changed this and improved outcomes and decreased recovery times.  This has led me to change my technique to take advantage of this newer system to help my patients. 

My patients have been extremely happy with the newer system. They have seen the normal recovery time cut in half.  I used to see patients get into normal shoes at about 3 months and now this is around 6 weeks.  If you want a quicker return to normal shoes, come, see me and we can evaluate whether you are a candidate for lapiplasty.  I truly believe the best long-term results can be achieved and this is correlated with better stability of the foot.  Bunion surgery has never been easier!

If you are experiencing bunion pain, I can help call to make an appointment with me at 425-391-8666 or fill out a contact form online. 

Sincerely,
Dr Brandon Nelson

American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons

Surgery for a bunion is most used for long term correction, meaning realigning the bone for the foot to function in a stabilized fashion.  Many bunion surgeries are what is called a head procedure.  This is when the metatarsal head is cut and pinned or screwed in place.  The procedure itself is straightforward and can usually be done in under an hour.  The average person will be walking the entire post operative phase and can be in a normal shoe in 4-6 weeks typically. 

Should I fix my bunion?

I think the answer to this question is does it hurt or do you have a hard time fitting in shoes or doing the activities you enjoy because of the bunion?  Most people with a bunion at some point will answer yes to this question and that is a good time to think about fixing it.  The other consideration is do other parts of my foot hurt because of the bunion or are my toes changing position because of my bunion?  Again if this is happening now maybe the time to fix it.

Is Surgery going to hurt?

Yes, surgery is going to be uncomfortable.  However, we work very closely with our post-operative patients to make sure their pain is well controlled during recovery.  It is imperative that patients get a head of the pain and take all medications that are prescribed.

How long does it take to recover?

This is a harder question to answer.  There are many factors that lead to recovery but in general.  Some patients are walking on their feet immediately and some must wait weeks.  The return to shoe can be as early as 4 weeks or longer like 10-12 weeks.  Most sports or activities have no limitation at 3 months.  

Does bunion surgery need to be done at the hospital?

A lot of surgeons still use the hospital or outpatient surgery center for bunion surgery.  These facilities can be very expensive.  My practice has a surgical suite which saves large amounts of money and time for every patient.  

 

If you have a bunion and are in pain, I can help.  Make an appointment with me today at 425-391-8666 or fill out a contact form online. 

Sincerely,
Dr Brandon Nelson

American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons

Bunion surgery for me is a very exciting procedure to perform.  I really enjoy fixing a large bunion and seeing the satisfaction on a patient's face.  Bunions can be debilitating and really interfere with life.  They make activities painful and are frustrating when buying shoe gear.  I have now been fixing bunions for 15 years and have truly begun to love the Lapiplasty.

The Lapiplasty is an exceptional procedure for patients that have large bunions.  It really has helped to create better outcomes and improved techniques for bunion repair.  The Lapiplasty is based on the Lapidus procedure first described by Dr. Paul Lapidus.  The procedure was popularized by Dr. Sigvard Hansen who was a local physician in Seattle.  Some of us had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Hansen and spending time with him.  He was truly an amazing physician that helped all of us foot and ankle surgeons.

If you are contemplating bunion surgery I would love to discuss your options with you.  It is important to get an x-ray and to see a surgeon that performs a lot of bunion procedures.  It is also convenient that at my practice we have an on-site surgery center.  Having our own surgery center is extremely valuable to patients as it is not affiliated with a hospital or an ASC and therefore saves each patient thousands of dollars in comparison to having it done at one of the above locations.  If you have a bunion I can help get you back to normal shoe gear and activities. Give us a call at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online today. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Brandon Nelson

The Lapiplasty has seen a lot of attention in recent literature.  It seems to be moving to the forefront of foot surgery and is showing promising results.  It has shown to be a reproducible bunion surgery that has great long term results.  I find the procedure to be highly successful and utilize it weekly in my bunion surgeries.

Lapiplasty is a surgical technique and instrument set that allows surgeons to decrease operating time and help patients return to activities much more quickly.  It utilizes a technique that has been proven to be one of the best corrective measures for bunions.  It also provides for great fixation of a bunion and maintains flexibility of the big toe joint. 

My experience with the Lapiplasty has been positive.  It makes the correction of the bunion much easier and reproducible.  It allows for precise bone cuts and easy options for fixation of the bone.  I find it extremely helpful for young patients and decreasing the chance of recurrences.  The overall recurrence rate seems to approach about 3%.   If you have a bunion and would like a consultation for a Lapiplasty please contact my office. Give us a call at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online today. 

Sincerely,

Dr Brandon Nelson