Hammer toe correction by arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint using a cortical bone allograft pin

In hammer toe correction by means of digital fusion, fixation so that the bone can unite while maintaining appropriate realignment can be a challenge. Metal fixation pins can be associated with many problems and potential complications. The author presents a method of rigid internal fixation using 2.4-mm-diameter pins fashioned out of freeze-dried allogeneic cortical bone. These devices avoid most of the risks of metal pins. Proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis using cortical bone pins was performed on 26 toes in 18 patients with very few complications. The author concludes that use of cortical bone pins can yield successful results in most cases. The outcomes of the fusions can be further enhanced by using flexor digitorum longus tendon transfer.