Explaining the Tendon Transfer Procedure Option for Hammertoe.
As the name indicates, the tendon transfer procedure for hammertoe is surgery that re-routes the tendon on the underside of the affected toe to a new route along the top of the toe restoring anatomic position of the toe.
Instead of pulling the toe into a contracted position, this re-routed tendon will provide a corrective force that helps maintain proper alignment with the toe. Generally, before any kind of surgical solution is considered, your physician will recommend non-surgical alternatives such as splinting, toe sleeves and a change in footwear.
When surgery is deemed necessary, the objective is to reduce pain, improve toe alignment, and to eliminate any prominence that might lead to the formation of a corn or callus on your toe. In fewer than four weeks patients may begin to return to normal activity based on your surgeon’s guidance.
As the name indicates, the tendon transfer procedure for hammertoe is surgery that re-routes the tendon on the underside of the affected toe to a new route along the top of the toe restoring anatomic position of the toe.
What to expect during surgery
Before the procedure begins, anesthesia will be administered to the patient to eliminate any pain or discomfort that might be felt during surgery. Your foot will be sterilized and then placed in a position where the surgeon will have maximum visibility and access. An incision will be made on the bottom of the affected toe to release the Flexor Digitorum Longus (FDL) tendon, one of the two tendons running beneath the toe.
The surgeon then makes another incision on the top of the toe and detaches the FDL tendon, thus relieving the persistent pulling force which draws the toe downward and allows the toe to relax. The surgeon will reconnect both ends of the tendon to anchor the tendon in place, applying a downward force that is meant to prevent the toe from over contracting. After this has been accomplished, the incision will be closed and bandaged.
Has your surgeon recommended hammertoe surgery?
If your hammertoe condition has progressed to the point where non-surgical corrective measures aren’t effective, surgery may be your only option to alleviate pain and restore your toe to normal anatomic position. A new alternative option, TenoTac® Soft Tissue Fixation System by Paragon 28, uses a minimally invasive approach to address hammertoes – visit our surgeon finder to speak with a surgeon, trained in the TenoTac procedure, about your condition to find out if this surgical approach is appropriate for you.
Important Risk Information
Only a surgeon can tell if the TenoTac® Procedure is right for you. There are potential risks, and recovery takes time. Potential risks include but are not limited to infection, discomfort, or swelling due to balancing and introduction of the implant, loosening of the implant, and loss of correction. Caution: Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
For the contraindications, potential complications and adverse reactions, warnings and precautions associated with this device, please refer to the device specific instructions for use at https://www.paragon28.com/ifus.
For additional information on Paragon 28® and its products please visit www.paragon28.com.
References
https://www.tenotac.com/patients
https://arizonafoot.com/tendon-transfer-for-hammertoe-fdl-tendon-transfer/
https://www.footcaremd.org/conditions-treatments/toes/flexor-to-extensor-tendon-transfer
