What is a claw toe repair?

Claw toe repair is a surgical procedure performed to correct a deformity or a bend in the middle and end joints of the toe. Claw toe occurs when your toes bend in a claw-like position, creating a painful callus. The affected toe rubs against other toes, causing pressure and pain.

Claw toe may be caused by rheumatoid arthritis, ill-fitting shoes or diabetes, which causes swelling, pain and stiffness in the joints. This may lead to the toe joints being damaged and may also dislocate them. Claw toe may cause symptoms such as upward and downward bent toes. Corns or calluses may also develop on top of your toe, under the end of your toe, or under the ball of your foot.

When is a claw toe repair recommended?

Claw toe repair may be recommended if you have an underlying neurological disorder that weakens the foot muscles and creates imbalances that bend your toes. Trauma and inflammation may also cause a claw toe deformity. Claw toe repair may also be recommended when conservative treatment such as a splint or tape, have been exhausted.

What does a claw toe repair entail?

Claw toe repair is usually done under general anaesthesia. Dr Chris Gräbe may perform a variety of claw toe repair procedures to correct the deformity, depending on the severity of your claw toe. Common procedures performed include:

• Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint resection (straightening of the toe): This procedure involves the removal or repositioning of the PIP joint as well as fusing the joint bones together with the use of a bone graft, scar tissue, metal pins.
• MTP joint soft tissue release: The MTP joint is able to flex, which may lead to the joint capsule (soft tissues) becoming very stiff and contracted. Therefore, when this occurs, it important that contraction and stiffness is released in order for this joint to go back to its normal/proper position.
• Extensor tendon lengthening: Tendons that pull the toe upwards can become tight and contracted and can be lengthened, allowing the toes to move back to their proper position.
• Tendon transfer: This is a surgical procedure where the orthopaedic surgeon releases the tendon that is pulling the toe downwards and moves it to the top of the toe.