Hammer toe reconstruction

In many cases, the hammer toe is a deformity that comes as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit properly – short, pointed footwear, high heels, as well as wearing tight socks. The toes are constantly bent and irritated, pressed by the surrounding toes.

The hammer toe ranks among frequent toe deformities resulting from joints being deformed due to an imbalance between short and long muscles of the leg. The toes are somewhat crouched. The toe is being gradually bent, it cannot be straightened, and the pressure of the footwear creates callosity on top of the first phalanx. The occurrence of hammer toes is also supported by the deformity called a bunion (hallux valgus) where one toe exerts lateral pressure on the other toe. The hammer toe may also be a congenital defect; it then occurs on multiple toes and on both feet at the same time. It may also be a result of a neurological disease.

The main symptom of the hammer toe is gradual toe crouching and deforming, the toe cannot be straightened, and begins to rest its tip on the pad.

It is a simple outpatient operation where the callosity is removed and the first phalanx is shortened, the bone is then aligned with the centre line. All hammer deformities are thus remedied during the operation. There is a number of hammer toe surgeries, both bone and soft tissue procedures. The procedure may be performed under local or regional anaesthesia.

The patient goes home after the procedure.

It is a rather simple operation so you will be able to walk immediately after the procedure. It is advisable to undergo rehabilitation after surgery. The sutures are removed in about 10 days, re-dressing is done in the surgical clinic on the first or second day after surgery, and further on as the surgeon considers adequate. After surgery, anti-swelling and pain relief medicines may be taken while an increased limb position also prevents swelling. Once the sutures are removed, you can lubricate and massage the scar for aesthetic purposes. You can place weight on the affected foot almost immediately, but it is imperative to prevent the formation of other hammer deformities, i.e. to wear suitable footwear! It is also recommended to fit the shoes with special customised thermoplastic inserts.

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