What is the definition or description of: hammertoe correction?

Repair of bent toes: Hammertoe correction refers to many different procedures, all intended to correct for a contracted toe which is causing pain and difficulty in shoewear. The procedures range from soft tissue procedures involving tendon and capsule work to arthroplasty which is a remodeling of the bone structure to a fusion of the toe to maintain corrected position. Which procedure is used is by physician choice.

See below: Hammertoe correction involves the removal of a section of bone from the toe to allow straightening of the toe. Sometimes an implant is used in the bone to help heal the bone.

Surgery or padding.: If you catch hammertoes in the early stages, a small, in-office procedure to release one of the tendons will often allow the toe to lie straight again. If the toe deformity has become rigid, the surgery is more involved. It's an outpatient procedure in an operating room, and can involve bone cuts, pins, screws, or other implants. Without surgery, your best bet is padding to reduce your discomfort.

Toe contracture care: Hammertoe correction is surgical management of a contracted toe. Different procedures may be performed depending on the severity of the deformity. The joint may be left separated or fusion of the ends may be attempted. For fusion, the cartilaginous ends of the bone are removed and the ends are approximated and stabilized via a wire, screw, pin, or implant. Tedons may need to be cut or lengthened.