Nail surgery is a relatively quick procedure, often taking about 10 minutes, and involves specific techniques to address nail problems. Here's how it's typically performed:
Nail Surgery Techniques
There are primarily two main techniques used in nail surgery, depending on the nature of the nail issue:
- Nail Avulsion: This involves the complete removal of the entire toenail.
- This technique is often used for severe cases of ingrown toenails or severely damaged nails.
- Wedge Excision: This is a more localized approach, which involves:
- Removing the portion of the toenail that is growing into the skin.
- Removing the area of tissue in the corner from which the toenail grows. This helps prevent the problematic portion of the nail from growing back.
Procedure Details
The procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient feels no pain during the operation.
Here's a simple summary in a table:
| Technique | Description | Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Avulsion | Removal of the entire nail. | Severely ingrown, damaged, or infected toenails. |
| Wedge Excision | Removal of a part of the nail and surrounding tissue from the nail matrix. | Mild to moderate ingrown toenails. |
Post-Surgery Care
Following nail surgery, the affected area will need to be kept clean and dressed to promote healing and prevent infection. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions tailored to your situation.
