Lesser Toe Correction
This operation is recommended where patients have clawing of the lesser toes (2-5) that is fixed. This deformity develops due to an imbalance between the tendons on the top and bottom of the toes. It can cause pain when the toes rub on footwear and in some severe cases there can be breakdown of the skin.
The operation is performed via small incisions over the knuckle of the toe and then another at the tip of the toe. The joints are prepared and then fixed with a screw, which remains inside the toe. In most cases there are no wires protruding from the tips of the toes.
Success rates: up to 90% of patients have a successful outcome with this procedure if selected appropriately.
Lesser toe correction is frequently performed with other surgery on the forefoot and the other procedures often dictate the post-operative plan.
Figure 1: before and after hammer toe correction surgery
Post-operative (For isolated lesser toe correction)
Surgery is a day-stay.
A block of the toe is performed to help with post-operative pain.
0-2 weeks: elevation at home to reduce swelling, walk in post-operative flat shoe
2-4 weeks: walking on flat of foot in post-operative shoe
4-6 weeks: return to walking normally in comfortable wide fitting shoes
6 weeks onwards: ongoing range of motion and strengthening
Download post operative care guide
Risks of surgery
Swelling, stiffness
Infection
Wound healing problems or infection
Scar sensitivity
Ongoing pain
Secondary surgery including removal of implants