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What is Hammertoe Surgery?

hammertoes deformity

At We Treat Feet Podiatry, we specialize in providing comprehensive foot care, including surgical interventions for hammertoes. When non-surgical treatments fail to alleviate symptoms or the condition becomes severe, surgical correction may be recommended. Here’s an overview of how we surgically treat hammertoes at our clinic.

The Process - Before

  1. Preoperative Evaluation: Before considering surgery, our experienced podiatrists conduct a thorough evaluation of your condition. This includes a physical examination, review of medical history, and discussion of symptoms. We may also order X-rays or other imaging tests to assess the extent of deformity and determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
  2. Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort during the procedure, we administer anesthesia. The type of anesthesia used depends on various factors, including the extent of surgery and your medical history. Most hammertoe surgeries are able to be done with just a local anesthetic.

The Process - During

Procedure: Once the anesthesia takes effect, our skilled podiatrists make a small incision near the affected joint. This allows us to access the underlying structures and perform the necessary corrections.   Hammertoes result from imbalances in the tendons and ligaments that control toe movement. 

During surgery, we carefully assess these structures and make adjustments as needed. This may involve lengthening or shortening tendons or releasing tight ligaments to restore proper alignment.  The main goal of hammertoe surgery is to straighten the affected toe joint. Using specialized instruments, we gently manipulate the joint to correct the deformity. 

In most cases, we may need to remove a small piece of bone or realign the bones to achieve the desired result.  This is often done by fusing the small joint in the toe.  Once the toe is straightened, we may need to hold the position of the toe in proper alignment by using internal fixation devices such as a pin. These devices help maintain the corrected position during the healing process.  After completing the necessary corrections, we carefully close the incision using sutures. We apply a sterile dressing or bandage to protect the surgical site and promote healing.

The Process - After

Postoperative Care: Following the procedure, our team provides detailed instructions on postoperative care. This typically includes keeping the foot elevated, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, and taking prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection. We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, remove any sutures, and provide additional guidance.

The Rehabilitation:

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the successful outcome of hammertoe surgery. Our podiatrists will recommend specific exercises, stretches, and physical therapy to promote healing, restore mobility, and strengthen the toe muscles. It is important to follow these recommendations diligently to optimize your recovery.

At We Treat Feet Podiatry, we prioritize patient satisfaction and strive to deliver the highest quality care. Our skilled podiatrists, along with our dedicated support staff, are committed to providing personalized treatment plans and excellent surgical outcomes for hammertoe correction. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards healthier, pain-free feet.

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