Bunions are a deformity that cause the big toe to point toward the second toe. This causes a bump on the edge of the foot at the joint of the big toe. Hammer toe is another deformity of the second, third or fourth toes that cause them to bend down like a claw. Both conditions can be corrected through surgical procedures.

What to expect

During bunion removal, the patient is first given a numbing anesthesia. The surgeon will make a cut along the bones of the big toe and repair the deformed joint and bones. A pin or cast is used to stabilize the bones.

Hammer toe correction is also done under local anesthetic, but the type of procedure will depend on the extent of the deformity. If arthroplasty is used, the surgeon will make an incision along the toe and trim the tendons that stabilize the inner toe bone, allowing the toe to straighten. More advanced conditions will require arthrodesis, which fuses two bones together. The surgeon will remove the cartilage from the base of the middle toe and fix the bones together with a removable pin so the bones eventually fuse together.

How to prepare

Patients will be expected to not eat and limit drink to clear liquids for at least six hours before the procedure. The doctor will advise the patient of any medications prohibited before the procedure. Patients will need to purchase special pads and shoes to aid in recovery.