TREATMENT OF INGROWN TOENAIL WITH SEGMENTAL MATRIX RESECTION

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of segmental germinal matrix resection in stage II and III ingrown toenails and to compare the results with pheolization which is one of the most popular methods of treatment.
Patients and methods: A total of 40 ingrown toenails, 30 (75%) stage II and 10 (25%) stage III, of 32 patients were treated by segmental germinal matrix resection operation, under regional digital anesthesia in the outpatient clinic.
Results: The average follow-up period of 35 ingrown toenails of 28 patients (87.5%) was 6.5 months (ranged from 6.0 to 8.0 months). The average time for returning normal daily activities was 12 days (ranged from 10 to 17 days). Postoperative complications were; two (5.7%) growth of onychoma (a small area of nail regrowth due to retained germinal matrix), two (5.7%) early soft tissue infection. There was no reccurrence.
Conclusion: Phenol cauterization may cause complications due to destructive effects of phenol. Segmental resection of germinal matrix, with careful surgical technique, in stage II and III ingrown toenails will decrease the risk of complications of phenolization with low recurrence rate.