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What is
Hammertoe Correction?
Hammertoe is a surgical procedure to repair
a foot deformity. This deformity takes place
when there is a decrease of the tendon that
controls toe movement, affecting the middle
joint of the toe to be twisted upward and
the distal joint downwards. The deformed toe
bears a resemblance to a hammer.
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Effects
of Hammertoe Correction
Surgical
treatment of hammertoe deformity offers very
dependable deformity correction and pain
relief. Recurrence is infrequent.
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Candidates
for Hammertoe Correction
Ideal
candidates for this procedure are those who
are experiencing debilitating pain from
hammertoe deformity, especially when
non-operative treatment is not sufficient.
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Your
Consultation
Before the
procedure, the doctor will perform a
physical examination and X-rays of joint. On
the day of the procedure, arrange a ride to
and from the hospital, plan for assistance
at home after the procedure, and wear
comfortable.
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The Hammertoe Correction
Procedure
There are two general means of hammertoe
correction: joint arthroplasty and joint
fusion. The kind of treatment depends on the
severity of the deformity.
For both methods, the doctor
creates an incision on the toe. In the course of an
arthroplasty, the major part of the middle joint in the toe
is removed, which lets the toe uncurl. One or more bones, or
a part of the bone, may be taken out as well. Throughout a
fusion, the bones are repositioned after ends of the bone at
the joint are resected and the bones are put together. The
repositioning is typically held together with a pin located
within the bone, and this pin will be removed after 3 to 4
weeks. Other changes to the anatomy of the foot as a result
of the hammertoe may also be corrected at this time.
The doctor closes the
incision with stitches. These stitches will be removed in
approximately two weeks, and the doctor will apply another
dressing to keep the toe(s) in proper position. Dressings
may be reapplied as swelling subsides, and can usually be
completely removed after a total of four weeks. If it
appears that the deformity may persist, your doctor may
prefer to carry on with dressings for another 2 to 4 weeks.
For people under age 30 who
have a slight deformity, a corrective procedure involving
soft tissue but no alteration to the joint or bones may be
performed.
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Recovery
Through the
first couple of days, rest in bed with your
foot lifted up and maintain it at an
elevated level while resting. Refrain from
standing and walking, and stay off your foot
as much as possible. Make use of crutches or
wear a special open-toed, wooden-soled shoe,
as recommended by your doctor.
The repaired toe may be
somewhat longer or shorter than before surgery (depending
upon what has been taken out), and will not move as much as
a normal toe. Anticipate a little swelling and redness,
which may continue for several months. Choose shoes with
ample of space for your toes. Poorly-fitting shoes may be a
factor to hammertoe development.
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Risks
Aside from
anesthesia-related problems, other possible
complications include infection,
extreme swelling
or bleeding, and reappearance of hammertoe.
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Frequently Asked
Questions
Q:
What
is a
hammertoe
correction?
A:
Hammertoe correction is a surgical procedure to mend a foot
deformity. This deformity happens when there is a shortening
of the tendon that manages toe movement, producing the
middle joint of the toe to be bent upward and the distal
joint downwards. The misshapen toe looks like a hammer.
Q: What
are the reasons for getting this procedure?
A:
This procedure is needed if the malformed toe has begun to
have an awkward position and is bringing pain. The deformity
can make walking difficult, and the position of toe can
affect breakdown of skin, which can escalate the risk of
getting a bone infection (osteomyelitis).
Q: What
happens during a hammertoe procedure?
A:
After the administration of
anesthesia, a tourniquet is applied above the ankle to
control the surgical area from bleeding. An incision is
created through the skin. The tendons that connect to the
toes are located, cut free of connective tissue to foot
bones, and divided so they no longer bend downward. The
middle joints of the affected toes are linked together
permanently via fine pins and wire sutures. The skin is
closed with fine sutures, which typically can be taken out
about 7 to 10 days after surgery. The tourniquet is then
removed.
Q: What
is the probable outcome of this procedure?
A:
Anticipate total healing without complications. It will take
about 4 weeks to recover from surgery.
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