What is Hammer Toe Correction?

A hammer toe correction is done to correct a foot deformity called a hammer toe .

Hammer toe © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Hammer toe occurs when there is a shortening of the tendon that controls toe movement. This causes the middle joint of the toe to be bent upward and the outer joint downwards. The misshapen toe resembles a hammer. A hammertoe correction is considered when:

• Other treatments have failed to bring about results.

• The malformed toe has assumed an awkward position and is causing pain.

• The deformity makes walking difficult.

• The position of the toe causes breakdown of skin. This can increase the risk of developing a bone infection.

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have the correction, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Excessive swelling, although the toe will normally be swollen for 4-8 weeks following surgery

• Anesthesia-related problems

• Recurrence of hammer toe

• Nerve or blood vessel injury to the toe

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Diabetes
• Bleeding disorders
• Poor circulation

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or any...