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’.