Tailor's bunion is a condition caused as a result of inflammation of the fifth metatarsal bone at the base of the little toe. In past centuries, tailors sat cross-legged and this was thought to cause the protrusion on the outside aspect of the foot. It is also characterized by pain and redness of the little toe.
The diagnosis is basically clinical. It is sometimes confirmed by X-rays ordered to help the surgeon find out the cause and severity of the deformity in order to plan the operation.
Initial treatment is conservative by means of shoe modifications (wearing wide and comfortable shoes and avoiding those with pointed toes or high heels), anti-inflammatories, local cold and sometimes local infliltrations.
Surgical treatment is indicated when conservative measures fail. It consists of a corrective osteotomy of the fifth radius by means of open or percutaneous surgery.
Percutaneous surgery is less aggressive for patients than others. It is done under local anesthesia allowing patients to be able to leave the operation room by foot. The scar is tiny (less than 3mm). It is required a weekly follow-up to change the corrective bandage.