Minimally Invasive Toe Procedure for crooked toes

Pulse Podiatry is now offering percutaneous flexor tenotomy, a quick and highly effective procedure performed under local anaesthesia, providing relief for patients suffering from painful clawed or hammer toes and recurring toe ulcers.

The minimally invasive treatment is designed to correct deformities caused by tight flexor tendons in the toes — a common issue in patients with diabetes, neurological conditions, or longstanding biomechanical problems. By releasing the tight tendon through a tiny incision, the toe is able to straighten, reducing pressure at the tip and helping wounds heal more effectively.

A Simple Procedure with Significant Impact

Unlike traditional corrective toe surgery, percutaneous flexor tenotomy is performed using a fine blade through a very small puncture in the skin. The procedure:

• Is performed entirely under local anaesthesia

• Requires no stitches

• Allows patients to walk immediately after treatment

• Involves minimal downtime

Because the incision is so small, healing is typically rapid, and complications are uncommon when carried out in appropriately selected patients.

Particularly Beneficial for High-Risk Patients

One of the key advantages of percutaneous flexor tenotomy is its suitability for high-risk or diabetic patients who may not be ideal candidates for more extensive surgery. Chronic tip-toe ulcers caused by clawing can be difficult to heal due to repeated pressure. By releasing the tendon and straightening the toe, pressure is dramatically reduced, often allowing ulcers to resolve quickly.

This makes the procedure a valuable tool in ulcer prevention and limb preservation strategies.

Delivered in a Clinical Setting

At Pulse Podiatry, the procedure is carried out by Professor Burke Hugo. Patients undergo a thorough assessment beforehand to ensure suitability, and aftercare guidance is provided to optimise healing outcomes.

Expanding Access to Advanced Foot Care

The introduction of percutaneous flexor tenotomy reflects Pulse Podiatry’s commitment to providing evidence-based, minimally invasive treatments within a community setting. By offering the procedure under local anaesthesia, patients benefit from:

• Reduced risk compared to general anaesthetic surgery

• Faster recovery times

• Convenient in-clinic treatment

• Lower overall treatment costs

Patients experiencing painful clawed toes, recurrent corns at the tip of toes, or non-healing toe ulcers are encouraged to seek assessment to determine whether this procedure may be appropriate.

For more information or to arrange a consultation, contact Pulse Podiatry directly or online under ‘Podiatric Surgeon consultation’, ‘Professor Burke Hugo’.

Clinic Welcomes Dr Burke Hugo, Specialist Podiatric Surgeon

Clinic Welcomes Dr Burke Hugo, Specialist Podiatric Surgeon

We are pleased to welcome Dr Burke Hugo to our clinic, where he joins the team as a Specialist Podiatrist and Podiatric Surgeon. Dr Hugo brings a high level of expertise and a strong commitment to patient-centred care, further strengthening the comprehensive foot and ankle services available to our community.

With advanced training in podiatric surgery, Dr Hugo specialises in the diagnosis and management of complex foot and ankle conditions. His clinical interests include both surgical and non-surgical treatment options, allowing him to tailor care plans to each patient’s individual needs and lifestyle goals.

Dr Hugo is known for his thorough approach, clear communication, and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for his patients. He works closely with other health professionals to ensure coordinated, evidence-based care from initial consultation through to recovery.

We are delighted to have Dr Burke Hugo join our clinic and look forward to the positive impact his skills and experience will have on our patients. Appointments with Dr Hugo are now available, and we warmly welcome both new and existing patients to book in.

Meet Dr James Knox

When Dr James Knox joined Pulse, our patients were very impressed with his attention to detail during treatment.

He boasts an impressive CV and is incredibly talented. Here are some fast facts

• Worked at Royal Perth hospital- treating severe trauma, management of diabetic complications and chronic disease
• Placed in the State ICN bodybuilding and physique titles as a Male Fitness Model-  This makes him very valuable in the weight lifting industry- So if you're experiencing pain whilst lifting and need some assistance, you know who to ask for!
• He's also a talented musician.

Pulse Podiatry is pleased to have Dr James Knox join our team.

James works in Wembley and the Perth CBD, so mention James when you're booking an appointment.