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PIP FUSION

Method
Surgical fusion of the PIP joint to correct a hammer toe
Duration
20 to 30 minutes
Recovery time
6 to 8 weeks

What is a fusion of the PIP joint?

Fusion of the PIP joint is a well-established surgical procedure for straightening a hammer toe permanently. The proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) is fused surgically. The aim is to correct the painful bend, remove pressure points and achieve lasting stability.

How the operation proceeds

  • Incision over the PIP joint of the affected toe
  • Removal of the joint surfaces in the middle joint
  • Straightening of the toe and fixation with a wire, a screw or an implant
  • Closure of the wound and fitting of a post-operative shoe

Rehabilitation after a PIP fusion

Aftercare aims at a reliable healing-in of the fusion and at restoring the capacity needed in everyday life. Rehabilitation is structured in phases:

Phase I (0-3 weeks): protection and wound healing
  • Wearing a forefoot offloading shoe
  • Elevation of the foot to reduce swelling
  • Wound check, removal of sutures after about 14 days
  • No loading through the forefoot
Phase II (4-6 weeks): building up load
  • Beginning partial weight-bearing in everyday life
  • Changing to a normal shoe once cleared
  • Mobilisation of the neighbouring toe joints
  • Gait training under physiotherapy guidance
Phase III (from week 7): return to full activity
  • Normal loading in everyday life without any special aids
  • Individual insoles where there are pressure points
  • Returning to work and to leisure activities
  • A final check that the bone has consolidated