What is Hammertoe Fixation?

Hammertoe fixation is an outpatient procedure that straightens and fixates a curled hammer toe. General anesthesia or intravenous sedation may be used to perform the 30-45 minute procedure.

After the patient is comfortable or asleep and can feel no pain, a tiny toe incision is made.
Bone and soft tissues are carefully removed so the toe can straighten.
A pin is placed through the toe to fixate it in a straight position.

The incisions are carefully close and sterilely dressed. Soft dressings are wrapped around the toes and foot for comfort purposes. The foot is placed in a flat sole post-operative shoe for protection and a family member or friend drives the patient home shortly after the procedure. After the healing process, symptoms decrease and patients live normal pain-free lives with no restrictions after recovery.

What Does Hammertoe Fixation Treat?

A hammertoe is a toe deformity where the toe is stuck in a curled position, like the head of a hammer. Any of the toes may be affected, the most likely however are the 2nd and 3rd. Anything that causes toe tendon and muscle imbalances can cause a hammer toe. Bunions and high heels are two very common causes.

Symptoms include:

• Calluses
• Corns
• Inability to move the toe
• Visible deformity

Nonsurgical treatment options may reduce symptoms, but they do not treat the deformity. When nonsurgical treatment options do not relieve symptoms, hammer toe fixation is usually recommended.

Patients can expect to find symptom relief when they make an appointment with us.