FAQS

1. Is this considered surgery?
A. Yes. These hammertoe, corn removal, or toe shortening procedures are surgical procedures performed under local anesthesia experienced on a similar level to dental or minor skin procedures.

2. Can you remove the corns without touching the bone?
A. Corns are caused when a joint of the toe bends out of shape in such a way that it causes the overlying skin to rub into the shoe. In most cases the joint has to be repaired at the same time the corn is removed to help assure that the corn will not form again. In some cases where it was just a bad fitting shoe that caused the corn and the joints of the toe are normal, and conservative treatments have failed, then just the removal of the corn is possible.

3. Will I have any pins or screws in my toes?
A. No. Our hammertoe correction technique utilizes a metal splint located in the bandage (not in the toe) that serves much the same purpose as an internal pin or screw. This approach eliminates the possible complications and removal issues surrounding these devices. Only in rare or unusual cases have we found it necessary to use a pin or screw.

4. Do I have to watch the procedure?
A. No. We have a vision block screen available on request.

5. Can someone be with me during the surgery?
A. Yes. There is seating for one other person of your choice in the room.

6. How long does the surgery take?
A. The procedure time ranges from 15 min to 30 min with an average time of about 20 min. Of course there is time required for x-rays and set up so expect each surgical session to be about 60 - 75 min.

7. Will I feel anything during the surgery?
A. The only area that is numbed by the local anesthetic is the toe that is being worked on. Before the start of the procedure we test the area thoroughly by pinching it and then asking the patient if they feel a pinch. If it passes that test the area is considered fully numb and you should not feel any pain or discomfort from the surgery. If you do feel a pinch we give you more local anesthetic and redo the pinch test. The rest of your foot is not numb and you may feel normal movements or light touches.

8. Are the procedures done in the Hospital?
A. No. The procedures are done in our toe surgical facility that is custom designed and constructed to optimize patient convenience, safety, and comfort.

9. Do I have to be put to sleep?
A. No. The procedures are performed under local anesthesia while you are fully awake - kind of like going to the dentist. This approach is safer as it eliminates the possible omplications of IV sedation and/or general anesthesia.

10. Can I eat before the procedures?
A. Yes. We encourage eating, particularly a balanced meal, before the procedure.