Hammertoe
Complaints Hammertoe
A hammer toe or contracted toe is a deformity of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the second, third, or fourth toe causing it to be permanently bent, resembling a hammer. Mallet toe is a similar condition affecting the distal interphalangeal joint. These toe abnormalities can be very painful, especially if pressure spots occur in the shoe.
Hammer Toe Treatment
In many cases, conservative treatment consisting of physical therapy and new shoes with soft, spacious toe boxes is enough to resolve the condition, while in more severe or longstanding cases orthopedic surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity.
A surgical correction, when the toe is still flexible the first and second joint of the toe is partially removed. The toe becomes slightly shorter and straight again. In a non-flexible hammer toe the joint to the metatarsal is loosened. There is a pin needed for 4 weeks placed in the correct position to heal.
Preparation
A simple hammer toe correction can take place under local anesthesia. You do not stay sober before the surgery, usually within one hour you can go home. A more complicated hammer toe correction takes place in outpatient, under general anesthesia or an epidural.
- You visit the anesthesiologist to determine whether the operation is possible. Besides they will explain the various forms of anesthesia and pain management, both during and after surgery. More information about anesthesia, click here.
- Finally the day of surgery of is scheduled
The day of surgery
- You should bring yourpersonal items such as medicines. You wear comfortable clothing and shoes and leave valuables at home as much as possible.
- You appear sober at the clinic for a complicated hammertoe surgery.
- After pre-operative preparation you will positioned and treated in the operating room
- After surgery you will be moved to the recovery room
- When you are restored sufficiently, the anesthesiologist will agree with your dismissal.
- You may not drive home by yourself
Recovery
A correction of hammer toe recovers quickly. The stitches are removed after 14 days. If a pin is placed in the toe, it will be removed after 4 weeks at the clinic. The first weeks, the toe is swollen and tender after the correction.
Complications
There are few complications seen from the hammer toe correction. There may be bleeding, infection occur, or the toe position is not correct.
Expectations
You expect a painless straight toe that fits into your shoe. Expectation will almost always be met. Your surgeon will discuss with you the expected result.
Frequent asked questions (FAQ)
Can I leave the clinic the same day of surgery?
Yes, you can leave the clinic the same day of surgery when you are in good health
Is it possible that a hammer toe will come back?
Yes it can but it is extremely rare.
Do I need a plaster after hammer toe correction?
No, you do not need a cast after a hammer toe correction
Do I need crutches after hammer toe correction?
No, you do not.
