Hammertoe Correction

A surgical procedure to correct a foot deformity called a hammertoe. This deformity occurs when there is a shortening of the tendon that controls toe movement, causing the middle toe joint to be bent upward and enlarged. The misshapen toe resembles a hammer.

Any or all of the second through fourth toes

Prior to Procedure

Your doctor will likely do the following:

• Physical exam
• X-rays of joint

The day of the procedure:

• Arrange for a ride to and from the procedure
• Arrange for help at home after the procedure
• Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove

During Procedure - Anesthesia

Anesthesia - Local

Description of the Procedure - There are two common methods of hammertoe correction: joint arthroplasty and joint fusion. The type of procedure used depends on the severity of the deformity.

For both methods, the doctor makes a cut on the toe. During an arthroplasty, the largest part of the middle joint in the toe is removed, which allows the toe to uncurl. One or more bones or a part of the bone may be removed as well. During a fusion, the bones are repositioned and fused together. The repositioning may be held in place with pins that dissolve in about six months or with a wire that will be removed after 3-4 weeks. Other changes to the anatomy of the foot due to the hammertoe may also be corrected at this time.

The doctor closes the incision with stitches. These stitches will be removed in about two weeks, and the doctor will apply another dressing to hold the toe(s) in proper position. Dressings may be reapplied as swelling decreases, and can usually be totally removed after a total of four weeks. If it appears that the deformity may recur, your doctor may choose to continue with dressings for another 2-4 weeks.

In people under age 30 with a mild deformity, a corrective procedure involving soft tissue (muscle) but no alteration to the joint or bones may be possible.

After Procedure - A dressing will hold the repositioned toe in proper alignment

How Long Will It Take? This depends on the procedure and the number of toes corrected

Will It Hurt? Anesthesia prevents pain during the surgery

Possible Complications:

• Infection
• Excessive swelling or bleeding
• Anesthesia-related problems
• Recurrence of hammertoe

Average Hospital Stay - None

Postoperative Care:

• During the first couple of days, rest in bed with your foot elevated; only get out of bed to use the bathroom
• Keep your foot elevated while resting
• Limit standing and walking, and stay off your foot as much as possible
• Use crutches or wear a special open-toed, wooden-soled shoe, as directed by your doctor

The corrected toe may be slightly longer or shorter than before surgery, and will not move as much as a normal toe. Expect some swelling and redness, which may persist for several months.

Select shoes with plenty of space for your toes. Poorly fitting shoes contribute to hammertoe development.