Ingrown toenails can be painful and uncomfortable, making it difficult to perform everyday activities such as walking and wearing shoes. In severe cases, ingrown toenails can even lead to infections and complications. In this blog post, we will explore the process of ingrown toenail removal, including the preparation, techniques, aftercare, and potential risks and complications. So if you need to know how to get rid of an ingrown toenail, then read on!
Introduction
First, let’s define what an ingrown toenail is. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This condition is more common in the big toe and can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, and genetics. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to infections and other complications, making it important to seek professional help. The removal of an ingrown toenail can provide relief from pain and discomfort and prevent further complications.
Preparation for Ingrown Toenail Removal
Before the procedure, it is essential to consult with a podiatrist to assess the severity of the ingrown toenail and determine the best course of action. The foot doctor will examine the affected area and ask about any symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and discharge.
The podiatrist will then prepare the tools and equipment needed for the procedure, such as nail clippers, a scalpel, and numbing medication. Depending on the severity of the ingrown toenail, the podiatrist may administer local anesthesia or another numbing medication to ensure that the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure.
Ingrown Toenail Removal Techniques
There are three primary techniques used for ingrown toenail removal: partial nail avulsion, total nail avulsion, and matricectomy.
Partial Nail Avulsion
Partial nail avulsion is the most common method of ingrown toenail removal. In this technique, the podiatrist removes only the portion of the toenail that is ingrown, leaving the healthy nail intact. The podiatrist will make a small incision along the side of the toenail and use nail clippers or a scalpel to remove the ingrown portion. The toe is then dressed and bandaged.
Total Nail Avulsion
Total nail avulsion is a more invasive technique that involves removing the entire toenail, including the healthy portion. This technique is typically reserved for severe or recurring cases of ingrown toenails. The podiatrist in West Milford will administer local anesthesia and use a scalpel to remove the entire toenail. The toe is then dressed and bandaged.
Matricectomy
Matricectomy is a less common technique that involves removing the portion of the nail bed that produces the ingrown toenail. This technique is typically reserved for severe or recurring cases of ingrown toenails. The podiatrist will administer local anesthesia and use a scalpel or chemical agent to remove the affected portion of the nail bed. The toe is then dressed and bandaged.
Aftercare and Recovery
After the procedure, it is essential to follow the podiatrist’s instructions for aftercare and recovery. The patient may experience pain and discomfort for a few days after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or prescribed medication from the podiatrist.
The toe should be kept clean and dry, and the dressing and bandage should be changed regularly to prevent infection. The podiatrist will provide instructions on when to return for a follow-up appointment and when it is safe to resume normal activities.
Risks and Complications of Ingrown Toenail Removal
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with ingrown toenail removal. These include infection, excessive bleeding, re-growth of the ingrown toenail, and nail deformities.
Infection is one of the most common complications of ingrown toenail removal. The patient should monitor the affected area for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, and discharge. If any of these symptoms are present, the patient should contact their podiatrist immediately.
Excessive bleeding is also a potential complication of ingrown toenail removal, particularly with the total nail avulsion technique. The podiatrist will apply pressure to the affected area to control bleeding and may use a chemical agent to stop the bleeding.
Re-growth of the ingrown toenail is another potential complication of ingrown toenail removal. This is more likely to occur with partial nail avulsion, as the healthy portion of the nail is still intact. The patient should take steps to prevent future ingrown toenails, such as wearing properly fitting shoes and trimming their nails correctly.
Nail deformities are also a potential complication of ingrown toenail removal, particularly with total nail avulsion and matricectomy. The patient should monitor the appearance of the nail as it grows back and contact their podiatrist if there are any concerns.
Conclusion
In summary, ingrown toenail removal is a common procedure that can provide relief from pain and discomfort and prevent further complications. The podiatrist will assess the severity of the ingrown toenail and determine the best course of action, which may involve partial nail avulsion, total nail avulsion, or matricectomy. The patient should follow the podiatrist’s instructions for aftercare and recovery and monitor for potential complications such as infection, excessive bleeding, re-growth of the ingrown toenail, and nail deformities. If you are experiencing symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is important to seek professional help to prevent further complications.
