This would present at a podiatry practice on a regular occurrence.
This case was in a 27-year-old, who had been suffering from a lateral 5th toe corn (heloma durum), however, an interdigital corn (heloma molle) on the medial 5th toe was most symptomatic.
Symptoms were marked and hard to control, and the patient, being young, was looking for a long-term, permanent solution. The patient had been offered and had attempted regular debridement, which is satisfactory in most cases; however, some patients may prefer a permanent solution.
Assessment of the X-rays (left image) shows a subluxed PIPJ and also incidentally an ankylosed DIPJ. This is leading to both a medial prominence and a lateral prominence, eventuating in friction and the subsequent corns.
This was resolved surgically via a simple arthroplasty at the PIPJ (the head of the proximal phalanx is remodelled) carried out under LA. Please note the image on the right with the very small incision and an absorbable suture being utilised, which will remove the need to remove any sutures. The procedure is quick and recuperation is also rapid. No further corns should occur.
If you have any specific questions or would like to discuss similar cases, feel free to contact me.
Also read:
Heloma Molle (interdigital corn)
Interdigital ulcer success
Heloma molle/soft corn
(This content is intended for healthcare professionals only)