This type of surgery is one of the most requested here at The Yorkshire Foot Hospital in Leeds.
Abnormally long toes often affects the 2nd and 3rd digits and is commonly referred to as a “Morton’s Toe.”
The 3 main issues they cause are:
How we carefully select our Patients
Prior to considering surgical treatment for Toe Shortening correction, we advise all our patients that if you present with any of the following:
That if you satisfy these criteria we will be happy to offer you treatment at The Yorkshire Foot Hospital in Leeds
BEFORE Long second toe with small bursae and calluses over joints After
This lady typically presented with a long 2nd toe, which had caused her years of discomfort since she was a young child due to the ends of her shoes pressing onto the toe and forcing the middle toe joint backwards into a hammer toe creating pain on top of the joint.
The procedure she had involved removing a small toe bone to shorten the digit and pass a small wire through the toe to hold it in position whilst the surgery healed.
There are a number of procedures we undertake at The Yorkshire Foot Hospital to surgically shorten toes.
The correct procedure and the pro’s and con’s of which will be thoroughly discussed with you by your Consultant Podiatric Surgeon.
Generally there are 3 procedures which can be undertaken :
- A digital arthroplasty which involves the excision of the small bone that forms the joint, allowing movement of the toe post-operatively.
- A digital arthrodesis which involves the excision of the small bone that forms the joint, to allow the toe to remain straight, a small wire is passed through the joint to hold it in place whilst your surgery heals. The wire remains in your toe for 4-5 weeks, after which it is simply removed. Post operatively the toe will be rigid.
- Following a digital arthroplasty, the toe is shortened to the desired pre-marked length and a small flexible, digital implant is placed inside the toe to hold the shortened toe in position, the implant remains within the toe for life. This procedure both shortens the toe which remains flexible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why might someone consider toe shortening surgery?
Toe shortening may be considered where a toe is excessively long or its position causes persistent rubbing, pain, pressure areas or difficulty with footwear. The underlying cause and alternatives should be assessed first.
Which toes can be shortened?
The procedure most often concerns a lesser toe, but the suitable approach depends on the toe’s anatomy, alignment, joints and the symptoms being treated. A specialist can advise after examination.
How is toe shortening surgery performed?
There are different techniques. Some involve removing a small amount of bone and stabilising the toe while it heals. The exact operation, anaesthetic and aftercare plan depend on the individual case.
How long does recovery take after toe shortening surgery?
Recovery varies with the procedure and whether temporary wires or other fixation are used. The hospital’s page describes wires being removed around four to six weeks in some cases, but your surgeon will give you an individual timeline.
Will toe shortening surgery guarantee that I can wear any shoes?
No operation can guarantee a particular cosmetic or footwear result. The aim is to address the symptoms or deformity identified at assessment. Your surgeon should discuss realistic outcomes, risks and alternatives.