Hammer toe is one of the most common toe deformities, occurring primarily in women. The problem most often affects the second and third toes. The joints of the toe become misaligned: the base of the toe moves upward, while the middle joint bends downward. The condition often occurs in conjunction with deformities of the big toe (such as bunions), as the altered foot structure causes the other toes to shift, become distorted, or overlap. Hammer toe is not only an aesthetic problem, but can also cause pain, difficulty wearing shoes, and walking problems. In some cases, the condition can be treated with conservative methods rather than surgery, but in advanced cases, surgery is often the only permanent solution.
Hammer toe surgery
What can cause hammer toe?
The most common cause of hammer toe is an imbalance in the structure of the foot. The deformity develops gradually: initially, increased pressure is placed on the base of the toes, then a slow but continuous restructuring of the foot begins. The second and third toes are most commonly affected, but less frequently the fourth and even the fifth toes may also become deformed. The essence of the deformity is that the base of the toe rises, while the other joints bend downward due to the pulling of the tendons, creating the characteristic V-shaped curvature. Hammer toe often occurs together with bunions, as the displacement of the big toe adversely affects the position of the other toes. The front of the foot widens, the toes become crowded, and the tension and shortening of the tendons further aggravate the situation. Over time, this can cause pain, difficulty wearing shoes, and hard, pressure-sensitive calluses on the deformed joint.
What are the most common symptoms of hammer toe?
Hammer toe causes significant pain, which intensifies with exertion, such as prolonged walking or standing, and is often accompanied by a burning, uncomfortable sensation. The affected toe gradually becomes stiff, the deformity becomes fixed, and the range of motion narrows, making walking increasingly difficult and even causing limping. The deformity is not only functional but also aesthetic, and complaints about wearing shoes are common: the protruding joint is pressed by the shoe, which can lead to inflammation, skin irritation, and even sores.
What preliminary tests are required?
Hammer toe surgery is always preceded by orthopedic and imaging examinations. In addition, laboratory tests, an ECG, and an anesthesiology consultation are required. If the patient has an underlying condition that may affect the risks of anesthesia, the anesthesiologist may request special tests or a specific specialist opinion to ensure safe anesthesia.
How is hammer toe surgery performed?
In all cases, the goal is to restore muscle balance, stabilize the bones, and achieve lasting results. Depending on the severity of the lesion, this can be achieved by stiffening the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint between the base and middle joints in an extended position. This often requires exposing the metatarsophalangeal (MP) joint formed by the metatarsal bone and toe, loosening the capsule and other soft tissues, lengthening the extensor tendon, and possibly controlled shortening of the metatarsal bone. In this case, a screw must also be inserted. All this is stabilized using one or two wires, which are removed 5-6 weeks after the operation. In certain cases, it is also possible to use an implant made of absorbable material instead of metal pins. Due to its absorbability, this does not require removal.
What should you do after hammer toe surgery?
Following hammer toe surgery, depending on the type of procedure, a recovery period of approximately 6 weeks is generally expected. During this time, it is important to avoid putting weight on the operated foot, attend regular check-ups, and perform the rehabilitation exercises recommended by your doctor to help regain range of motion and achieve full recovery.
Skin sutures are usually removed two weeks after surgery. If wires were inserted, they are removed no later than six weeks after surgery.
What are the risks of hammer toe surgery?
Hammer toe surgery, like any surgical procedure, may involve bleeding, injury, and inflammatory complications. Wound healing disorders may occur, especially in patients with vascular disease or those who smoke. Prolonged bone remodeling, local swelling, sensitivity, and possibly the recurrence of the deformity may also occur. The chance of wound infection is minimal with preoperative risk assessment and protocol-based disinfection.
Hammer toe surgery fees
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WHY CHOOSE DR. ROSE PRIVATE HOSPITAL?
- Highly trained specialists, modern diagnostic and therapeutic equipment.
- Empathetic, people-centered approach. Our specialists always keep the comfort and safety of our patients in mind.
- Premium inpatient ward. Four operating rooms and 47 patient rooms equipped to meet every need, with 59 beds, are available to our patients. The highest professional standards combined with an exclusive environment to promote healing allow you to recover in safety and with complete peace of mind.
- Fast and predictable appointments. We guarantee an appointment for the necessary procedure within 1-2 weeks of the initial specialist consultation.
If you have any complaints related to foot deformities, such as hammer toes, please contact the doctors at Dr. Rose Private Hospital with confidence.