Hammer toe deformity

Brian R. Piazza, Paul Juliano

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Hammer toe deformity of the lesser toes is one of the most common surgically treated conditions of the foot and ankle. A hammer toe deformity consists of plantarflexion at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. In addition, the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) and the distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) are commonly extended. The etiology of a hammer toe deformity is often multifactorial and is associated with multiple medical conditions including hallux valgus, trauma, inflammatory arthritis, flexor digitorum longus contracture, and diabetes. Shoes with narrow toe boxes also play a role in the etiology of the deformity. Nonsurgical treatments for hammer toe deformity include activity and shoewear modification, cushioned toe sleeves, and taping of the toes. When nonsurgical treatments fail, surgical options for a fixed hammer toe include resection arthroplasty, arthrodesis, and amputation. The goal of surgical intervention is to achieve a pain-free, cosmetically appealing toe that accommodates normal shoewear without undue pressure. With proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) arthroplasty or arthrodesis, options for fixation include Kirchner wire (K-wire) fixation and various intramedullary implants. Patient satisfaction and fusion rates of PIP arthrodesis are routinely documented to be greater than 90%.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationFoot and Ankle Fusions
Subtitle of host publicationIndications and Surgical Techniques
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Pages145-159
Number of pages15
ISBN (Electronic)9783319430171
ISBN (Print)9783319430164
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2017

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Hammer toe deformity'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this