Ingrown toenail surgery, also known as partial nail avulsion, is a common procedure performed to treat ingrown toenails. It is often used for more severe cases of ingrown toenails, which do not respond to other conservative healing methods. During the surgery, the podiatrist administers local anesthesia to numb the toe, ensuring the patient's comfort throughout the procedure. Next, the podiatrist carefully removes a portion of the affected toenail, including the ingrown edge or spike that is causing pain and inflammation. This process may involve using surgical instruments or specialized tools to precisely trim the nail. For recurrent or severe cases, the podiatrist may also apply a chemical solution or use a laser to destroy the nail matrix, the area the nail grows from, to prevent the ingrown portion of the nail from regrowing. Then the toe is thoroughly cleaned. A sterile dressing may be applied to promote healing. The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, and patients can usually resume normal activities shortly afterward. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options, which may include surgery.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM of Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Plano, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
