What Is the Surgical Technique for Ingrown Toenails?
An ingrown nail may appear like a minor inconvenience initially; however, anyone who’s had to deal with one will know how painful and disruptive it can be. When conventional treatments don’t offer relief or the infections continue to recur, surgery is a safe and viable alternative. What is an ingrown nail surgery comprise and how can a doctor of foot in Perth normally do the procedure?
We’ll go over all you need to know about surgical procedures that are used to treat this typical foot issue.
Understanding Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown nail occurs when the tip of the nail grows to the skin surrounding it typically affecting the large toe. This causes inflammation, pain, redness and even an infection. The most frequent causes are:
- Nail trimming that isn’t done correctly (cutting shorter or rounding the edges)
- In tight shoes
- Nail trauma
- Genetic predisposition to curly nails
When the problem develops into chronic or ailment, ingrown toenail surgery could be the most effective method to stop any further discomfort or complications.
When Is Surgery Recommended?
Ingrown nails do not always require surgery. In the early stages, hot salt soaks as well as appropriate footwear and careful trimming, could be sufficient. However, a specialist in foot surgery from Perth may recommend surgery in the following circumstances:
- The toenail that is ingrown toenail keeps coming back
- There’s constant swelling, pain, or pus
- An infection has risen and isn’t going to improve with antibiotics.
- If you suffer from a medical condition such as diabetes, which can increase the chance of developing foot problems.
Surgical Techniques for Ingrown Toenails
There are a variety of surgical options for treating ingrown toenails depending on how severe the problem is and the patient’s history. Here are the most commonly used methods employed by experienced foot surgeons in Perth:
1. Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA)
It is the most commonly utilized method to treat toenails that have grown.
What It Involves:
- The affected part on the nail (usually on one side) is removed carefully using a local anaesthetic.
- A chemical known as Phenol is commonly placed on the nail’s matrix (root) to stop this portion which is the nail’s root from regrowing.
- The procedure is about 15-30 minutes, and is painless because of the local anaesthesia.
Benefits:
- Minimally infected
- It preserves the majority of the nail
- Very high rate of success and very low incidence of recurrence
It is the most commonly used method of surgical treatment for ingrown toenails in Perth, particularly for patients seeking quick relief with minimal discomfort.
2. Total Nail Avulsion (TNA)
In more serious cases, or if the entire nail is damaged the entire nail is affected, the need for complete nail removal could be required.
What It Involves:
- The entire toenail is removed under local anaesthesia.
- The nail might or may allow the nail to grow depending on the situation and preference of the patient.
When It’s Used:
- Ingrown nails with severe infection affected on both sides
- The most frequent issues are with nail deformation or thick
3. Zadik’s Procedure or Surgical Excision
It is an extensive procedure, which is typically used in cases of significant damage or deformity of the nail bed.
What It Involves:
- The nail’s entire length and the matrix are surgically removed.
- It is done under sterile conditions with local anaesthetics. It is usually performed at a day surgery center.
- The healing process takes longer, however the rate of recurrence is very low.
Why It’s Chosen:
- Permanent solution
- Perfect for chronic sufferers or those who suffer from frequent infections.
Recovery and Aftercare
Following the procedure to remove an ingrown toenail Your doctor of the foot in Perth will give you instructions on wound care and hygiene. You can anticipate:
- A mild soreness that lasts for a couple of days
- Inflating your shoes or wearing open-toed for a couple of days
- Treatment changes, dressings and saltwater soaks to avoid the spread of infection.
The majority of patients resume routine activities within a few days. The full healing process occurs within a few months for partial elimination. It takes slightly longer for complete removals.
Final Thoughts
Ingrown toenails surgery is a quick but effective procedure that could provide lasting relief from chronic infections and pain. Utilizing the most advanced techniques, with very little downtime, and high rates of success Patients can be confident that they’re in good hands when they choose a skilled doctor of the foot in Perth.
If you’ve experienced constant discomfort or persistent nail problems, don’t put it off any longer. A professional surgical treatment for ingrown toenails in Perth may be the answer you’ve been looking for to return to your feet pain-free and assured.