How successful is hammertoe fusion, and what can go wrong?
Short answer: Arthrodesis can provide reliable alignment and pain relief for many appropriately selected rigid hammertoes. The intended fusion may heal solidly, but nonunion and persistent symptoms remain possible.
Risks include infection, wound problems, swelling, stiffness, numbness, malalignment, recurrence, delayed union or nonunion, implant irritation, transfer pressure, floating toe and the possible need for further surgery.
A radiographic nonunion is not always painful, while a technically united toe can still be uncomfortable if alignment, footwear or another forefoot problem remains unsuitable. Success is judged by function and comfort as well as X-rays.