What is a flexor tenotomy for a hammertoe?
Short answer: A flexor tenotomy releases a tight tendon through a very small opening so a selected flexible or partly flexible toe can sit straighter and place less pressure on its tip.
The procedure targets the deforming tendon rather than removing a joint. It is generally most useful when the toe corrects on examination and the main problem is distal pressure, a recurrent corn or an at-risk toe-tip lesion.
Tenotomy is not a universal solution. A rigid joint, major rotation, significant dislocation or a prominent arthritic joint may require a bony procedure instead.