Name of the Procedure:

Wedge Excision of Skin of Nail Fold
Common Name: Ingrown Toenail Surgery
Technical Term: Partial Nail Avulsion with Phenolization

Summary

Wedge excision of the skin of the nail fold is a minor surgical procedure to treat ingrown toenails. It involves removing a small portion of the nail and surrounding tissue to alleviate pain and prevent future occurrences.

Purpose

Medical Condition: Ingrown Toenail (Onychocryptosis)
Goals/Outcomes: To relieve pain, reduce infection risk, and prevent the nail from growing into the skin again.

Indications

Symptoms:

• Persistent pain and swelling around the toenail
• Redness and infection
• Pus drainage from the affected area

Patient Criteria:

• Non-responsive to conservative treatments such as soaking, proper nail trimming, or antibiotics
• Recurrence of ingrown toenails

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• No fasting usually required
• Inform the doctor of any medications or allergies
• Follow guidelines on medication adjustments, such as discontinuing blood thinners

Assessments:

• Physical examination of the affected toe
• Possibly a local anesthetic sensitivity test

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, usually lying down with the foot elevated.
2. The affected toe is cleaned and sterilized.
3. A local anesthetic is injected to numb the area.
4. The surgeon makes a small incision at the nail fold and removes a wedge-shaped section of the nail and surrounding inflamed tissue.
5. In some cases, a chemical (phenol) is applied to the nail matrix to prevent regrowth.
6. The wound is cleaned, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Tools/Equipment:

• Scalpel, scissors, or nail splitters
• Sterile drapes and dressing materials
• Local anesthetic solution
• Phenol (if used)

Anesthesia: Local anesthesia only; the patient remains awake.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic or minor surgery room within a hospital.

Personnel

• Podiatrist or general surgeon
• Nursing staff or medical assistant

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Pain and discomfort post-procedure
• Minor bleeding

Rare Complications:

• Infection
• Nail deformity or abnormal regrowth
• Reaction to anesthesia

Management: Infections are treated with antibiotics, and pain is managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

Benefits

• Immediate pain relief
• Reduced risk of recurrent ingrown toenails
• Quick return to normal activities

Realization Timeframe: Benefits are often noticed within a few days following the procedure.

Recovery

• Keep the toe clean and dry for the first few days.
• Change dressings as instructed by the healthcare provider.
• Avoid strenuous activity and tight footwear until fully healed.
• Follow-up appointment in 1-2 weeks for assessment.

Expected Recovery Time: About 2-4 weeks, depending on individual healing.

Restrictions: Avoid submerging the foot in water and applying weight on the toe.

Alternatives

Non-Surgical:

• Soaking the foot in warm water
• Topical or oral antibiotics if infection is present
• Using proper nail trimming techniques and footwear

Pros and Cons:

• Non-surgical methods are less invasive but may not address chronic or severe cases.
• Surgical intervention has a higher success rate but involves minor surgical risks.

Patient Experience

During Procedure: Mild discomfort during local anesthetic injection; no pain during the procedure itself.

After Procedure:

• Mild to moderate pain; typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medications.
• Swelling and redness are common but should subside within a few days.
• Follow certain foot care practices to maintain comfort and promote healing.

Pain Management: Use prescribed or recommended pain relief measures, elevate the foot, and keep the area dry and clean.