I am 39 years old and over the past year, my bunions have progressed to the painful point of capsulitis on the second toe (of both feet). I play Aussie Rules Football and need surgery during the offseason (now thru April) on both of my feet. I have seen 2 podiatrists. One recommends a Chevron bunionectomy, with the use of an absorbable pin, no cast (just a boot) and doing the other foot at about 6-8 weeks. The other surgeon recommends a Green-Watermann trilateral osteotomy, with the use of a metal pin (may or may not be removed at 8 weeks) and a lower leg plaster cast for 2 weeks. And then doing the other foot at about 6-8 weeks as well. What is the difference between these 2 procedures and the surgeons preference on pins/casts?? I know surgery is an art form, but I am looking for some confidence in approaches. Am i too optimistic to think I will be out on the "footy" field wearing cleats this spring?
Thanks...Bear. |