Surgical interventions for ingrown toenail

Abstract

Background: Paronychia is a prevalent clinical disease affecting the soft tissue surrounding the nails. Most cases of toenail paronychia are commonly associated with ingrown toenails. While conservative treatment is effective for mild cases of ingrown toenails, surgical intervention becomes necessary for moderate to severe cases, particularly when granulomas form.

Objective: To provide a systematic understanding of these classic and modified procedures for surgeons to select the appropriate surgical interventions for patients suffering from moderate to severe ingrown toenails and discuss this technology's advantages and limitations for dermatologic surgery.

Methods: A literature search was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases. Studies discussing surgical intervention for ingrown toenails were included. Moreover, the surgical steps were meticulously depicted by detailed schematic diagrams.

Results: These surgical techniques can be divided into three categories: matrix resection, debulking of periungual soft tissues, and the rotational flap technique. Each approach possesses distinct advantages and limitations.

Conclusion: For moderate to severe cases, surgical interventions may exhibit superior outcomes, faster recovery times, and lower recurrence rates. The surgeon must possess a comprehensive understanding and proficient skillset in various surgical techniques for ingrown toenails.

Keywords: Dermatologic surgery; Ingrown toenails; Paronychia; Surgical intervention.