Hallux valgus in Zurich - Choose the expertise of a French surgeon

What is hallux valgus?

Hallux valgus, commonly known as a bunion, is a common deformity of the foot. It is characterized by the deviation of the big toe towards the outside of the foot, accompanied by a deviation of the first metatarsal bone towards the inside of the foot. It is often thought to result in the development of a protrusion on the inner side of the foot. This "bump" is, in fact, the result of the deviation between the metatarsal and the phalanx.

Hallux valgus is a progressive condition, so it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional at the first signs of symptoms (discomfort, pain, visible deformity...).

Diagnosis by a hallux valgus surgeon in Zurich and elsewhere

The diagnostic process, whether performed by a hallux valgus surgeon in Zurich or elsewhere, remains the same.

The diagnosis of hallux valgus is largely based on a clinical examination of the foot. During the consultation, the surgeon will ask you questions about the discomfort and pain you are experiencing. They will also visually examine the foot to observe any deformities.

In some cases, medical imaging examinations may be necessary. The goal is to measure the extent of the deformity and detect the possible presence of other pathologies.

These various steps will allow Dr. Julien Lopez to guide you towards the most appropriate treatment for your case. Hallux valgus surgery is not performed for aesthetic purposes. Surgical intervention is considered when the patient complains of debilitating daily pain.

Non-surgical treatments offered by a hallux valgus specialist in Zurich, Nice, or Cannes

Only a hallux valgus specialist in Zurich or elsewhere can guide you towards the appropriate treatment. Conservative treatment is generally the first-line treatment for mild to moderate hallux valgus cases. The goal is to relieve pain and slow down the progression of the deformity.

Several non-surgical treatments are available:

• Orthopedic insoles

There are several types of orthopedic insoles (daytime insoles, nighttime insoles, custom-made insoles...). Protective insoles and corrective insoles are also distinguished. Protective insoles aim to protect the hallux valgus from friction against the shoe, thereby reducing pain. Corrective insoles gradually correct the deviation of the toe while relieving pain.

• Orthoplasty

Orthoplasty is a custom-molded specific orthosis. The practitioner conducts a thorough clinical examination of the foot and studies the footwear. The orthoplasty is then directly molded onto the patient's foot.

There are two types of orthoplasties. Protective orthoplasties are indicated for the treatment of severe deformities. The goal is to improve the positioning of the toes (when the orthoplasty is worn) to relieve pain. In the case of hallux valgus, they also help reduce friction between the foot and the shoe.

Corrective orthoplasties are indicated for reducible deformities. They ultimately reposition the toes in a normal position.

• Orthopedic shoes and insoles

Custom-made orthopedic insoles are directly molded to the shape of the foot. These devices aim to limit the deformity while relieving the patient's pain.

Hallux valgus surgery in Zurich and elsewhere - Different methods

Discover the different methods available for hallux valgus surgery in Zurich and around the world.

In cases of conservative treatment failure, the surgeon will recommend hallux valgus surgery. Dr. Julien Lopez specializes in treating hallux valgus using minimally invasive surgery. When possible, the surgeon prefers to use this surgical technique.

In some cases, traditional open surgery may be necessary.

Open surgery

This surgical technique may be used in several cases:

• In cases of severe deformity
• In cases of previous surgical intervention failure and recurrence

• In cases of the presence of other foot pathologies or deformities

The procedure begins with a significant incision on the edge of the foot to gain direct access to the joint. The surgeon can then perform all the necessary actions on both soft tissues and bony structures. This includes cutting or lengthening retracted elements, tensioning distended ones, cutting and reorienting axes (osteotomies), among other procedures.

Open surgery, however, has some disadvantages for the patient, as it leads to more significant post-operative pain, a longer recovery period, an increased risk of infection, and less aesthetic scarring.

Minimally invasive surgery

When circumstances allow, Dr. Julien Lopez prefers to use the percutaneous technique. This method significantly reduces tissue aggression and simplifies post-operative recovery.

The steps of hallux valgus surgery, in Zurich or elsewhere, remain the same. During the procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions, only a few millimeters in size. These incisions are used to insert special surgical instruments and a miniature camera to visualize the inside of the big toe joint. Through these minimal incisions, the surgeon performs the necessary steps to correct the hallux valgus deformity. This may involve resecting a portion of the bone, adjusting tendons, or other specific procedures depending on the severity of the deformity. Dr. Julien Lopez then prefers to use screws to stabilize the big toe joint during the healing process.

At the end of the procedure, the surgeon applies a dressing directly in the operating room.

Minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, with same-day admission and discharge. On the day of the procedure, you will need to be accompanied.

If you need to undergo hallux valgus surgery in Zurich but can't find a competent surgeon, choose the expertise of French surgeon Julien Lopez. He will welcome you in one of his clinics in Nice or Cannes.