What do we expect from toe surgery?
We call various toe curvature deformities mallet toe, claw toe or cross toe. In order to straighten the toe, a small portion of the bone in the toe joint is usually removed. To keep the toe straight after surgery, we usually insert a small nail or steel pin into the toe to keep it straight for 4-6 weeks, but it is not painful. After surgery, the middle of the toe will harden, but the area where the toe is attached to the foot will move. There are many different types of procedures that are performed specifically on the toe, some of which we call arthroplasty and some of which we call arthroplasty. To straighten the toe, the area where the toe is attached to the dorsal bone of the foot often requires surgery as well. The tendons are loosened, removed or stretched to straighten the toe. After surgery, regardless of the exact procedure we perform, the toe will swell and be numb for a while. The swelling may last 3-4 months and often requires massage of the toe several times a day to reduce the swelling. There are many different types of toe deformities, and therefore the severity of each deformity is graded, which of course affects the type of surgery performed and the patient’s recovery. Recovery is faster if no additional bone surgery is performed during the procedure.
General recovery
1. Patients may have mild to moderate pain that lasts for several days.
2. On the first day after surgery, patients can walk on their feet. However, many patients are reluctant to walk because of the pain.
3. A nail or steel pin is usually placed in the toe and is often removed in an outpatient setting after 4-6 weeks.
4. After about 4 weeks, the patient can start exercising under the direction of the doctor.
5. After about 4 weeks, the patient can wear normal sports shoes.
6.The toe may be swollen for 3-4 months.
7.Special post-operative procedure
Day 1.
1.Wear bandage and post-operative shoes for the affected foot.
2.The steel pin may protrude outside the toe.
3.Cold compress, elevate the affected foot and take painkillers.
4.After surgery, the affected foot may be numb for 12-24 hours, and pain may occur, which can be relieved by using painkillers.
5.There may be a small amount of blood leakage, but do not change the bandage.
Day 3.
1.Start walking on the heel only while wearing post-operative shoes.
2.If there is moderate pain, continue to take painkillers.
3.Place cold compresses on the affected foot and elevate the affected foot as much as possible.
4.Prevent the position of the steel pin from being bumped.
5.Change the dressing, check the condition of the wound and take X-rays.
Day 14
1.The first follow-up consultation is performed in the outpatient clinic.
2.Change the dressing and check the condition of the wound.
Week 4-6
1.Change dressing or bandage as needed.
2.The steel needle is removed at the outpatient clinic.
3.Wear ordinary shoes and can be fully weight bearing.
5.Massaging the toe for 1 month is important.