a simple solution for a complex problem
The Syndesmosis Procedure is a potential game-changer in surgical bunion correction. After 35 years and over 2,000 feet, the Center for Syndesmosis Bunion Correction proves there is better way to healthy, bunion-free feet. Repeatedly. Consistently.
If the root of the complex bunion problem is a ligament failure causing bones to collapse, the most logical way to reverse the problem is equally through ligaments. The point of origin reveals a simple solution.
The Process
RE-ALIGN
The displaced first metatarsal can be readily and naturally re-erected to its normal position by simply tying it to the adjacent second metatarsal bone with absorbable surgical sutures without cutting any bones or fusing any joints.
STABILIZE
A unique surgical technique creates an environment that induces the natural formation of a new ligament – the Syndesmosis – to re-stabilize the first metatarsal and prevent bunion recurrence. After 3 months the sutures absorb into the body.
RESTORE
Once displaced bones are holistically re-aligned and re-stabilized, the normal mechanics of the entire medial column can then be restored. The arches reform and strengthen, and the big toe regains function as if the bunion had not existed before.
Your body was designed to heal itself
Your body’s own ability to heal itself is the key to restoring and retaining optimal foot function. A Syndesmosis is a common anatomical structure in the human body that connects and stabilizes two parallel long bones to each other. The most well-known Syndesmoses exist in your legs and forearms.
The Syndesmosis Procedure utilizes the body’s innate healing response to produce a brand new fibrous connecting bridge between the first and second metatarsals. Identical to the healing of a wound, any healthy body is capable of forming this biological structure, without any artificial implant or tissue transplantation. We simply create the environment. Your body does the rest.
The Syndesmosis Procedure is a special surgical technique that leaves each bone and joint fully intact by addressing the true underlying ligament problem. Once it forms naturally over 3 months, the Syndesmosis is the only mechanism needed to critically stabilize previously unstable bones. And because the Syndesmosis is a living structure – it’s strength and durability will last as long as any other healed wound. It’s yours for life.
A better way to healthy, bunion-free feet
35
YEARS
Experience
2K
FEET
restored
The Syndesmosis Procedure is an evidence-based bunion correction surgery that has broken with the bone-breaking tradition. It’s minimally traumatic, so patients experience far less pain and fewer complications. It has remarkably overcome not just one but most of the critical challenges facing all other bunion surgeries today.
- Walking is allowed immediately after surgery, so both feet can be done at same time. This is less commonly seen with other surgeries. Recovery Experience >>
- One single surgical technique provides satisfactory correction for all bunion severities. No other bunion procedure has claimed such a feat. Evidence >>
- The bunion recurrence rate, especially long-term, is very low due to the unique permanence of the Syndesmosis. Recurrence is still a common reality troubling most other bunion procedures. Evidence >>
- Big toe function can be restored significantly and consistently, proven by foot function scan studies and the disappearance of metatarsal calluses. Few other bunion surgeries have such evidence. Evidence >>
- Unrestricted activities and shoes are permitted six months after surgery. Our patients are able to return to frequent high heel wear and even the most demanding activities – including marathon running, ballroom dancing and professional ice skating. Full-Function Success >>
Recovery
Recovery after the Syndesmosis Procedure is a natural process of ligament formation, therefore it is consistent, constant and predictable
- Syndesmosis formation –There is no known method to confirm ‘completion’ of the Syndesmosis’ formation, but our experience suggests gradual return to normal walking after 3 months and unrestricted activities and shoes after 6 months.
- Less pain – Patients of ours, who previously had a bone-cutting surgery elsewhere, report much less pain after the Syndesmosis Procedure. The vast majority of our patients need only anti-inflammatories (Arcoxia) and mild pain relievers (Tylenol #1) for 2-3 days after surgery.
- Immediate weight-bearing – Full weight bearing is permitted anytime, and walking resumes the day following surgery. Most patients prefer crutches for security for the first few days.
- Casting and footwear – Small forefoot casts and post-surgical shoes are generally worn for 3 months to protect the internal holding sutures and to facilitate the Syndesmosis’ formation. Sneakers or trainers with simple orthotics are worn for 2-3 months for comfort and rehabilitation after cast removal.
- Restricted walking – Swelling is normal and foot elevation is recommended whenever possible during the first post-operative month. For protection, walking is generally restricted to no more than 5,000 steps a day for the second and third months. Crutches are recommended for outdoor walking. A strolling pace is critical for minimizing ground impact stress on the internal holding sutures until the Syndesmosis is fully formed.
Possible complications
Complication is always a possibility for any surgical undertakings, no matter how small the surgery may be or how skilful the surgeon is, and even how cooperative the patient can be. However, more complicated, extensive and traumatic surgeries have, in general, greater risk of developing complications.
It is important to realize there can also be complications after the Syndesmosis Procedure, such as wound infection, surface numbness, a stiff big toe, over-correction, stress fracture, second metatarsal displacement or bunion recurrence, albeit they are uncommon and can be cautiously prevented or resolved. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to discuss them with us.