Partial Matrix Excision or Orthonyxia for Ingrowing Toenails
Kruijff S, van Det RJ, van der Meer GT, van den Berg IC, van der Palen J, Geelkerken RH
J Am Coll Surg. 2008;206:148-153
In this report, the authors present findings evaluating 2 surgical options for treating ingrown toenails: partial excision of the matrix (58 patients), or orthonyxia (51 patients), in which the operator first removes the offending symptomatic nail spicule and then applies a metal strut to the dorsum of the nail. The main study endpoint was the rate of recurrence. The frequency of recurrence at 1 year was similar in the 2 groups (partial matrix excision = 4, orthonyxia = 8, P = .14), but orthonyxia improved postoperative recovery, which was measured as bleeding, pain, and ability to wear shoes.
Ingrown toenails are common complaints often requiring treatment by a surgeon or podiatrist. This study compared 2 different therapeutic options -- partial excision of the nail root vs straightening of the offending nail (orthonyxia). Occasional recurrences required additional treatment in about 3% to 4% of patients in both groups. The recurrence rate was somewhat higher with orthonyxia, but it did lead to a speedier recovery. Furthermore, orthonyxia is straight-forward and cheaper than conventional partial excision of the nail matrix.
Medscape General Surgery © 2008 Medscape
Cite this: Ingrown Toenails -- Straighten or Remove? - Medscape - Mar 10, 2008.
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