As podiatrists there are certain questions we hear more than others. “Will my ingrown toenail need surgery?” is probably one of the most common. Nobody relishes the idea of surgery on their toes. Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition that occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort, redness, swelling, and infection. While most ingrown toenails can be treated with conservative methods, such as proper nail care and home remedies, there are instances where surgical intervention may be necessary. There are several different factors that determine whether your ingrown toenail will require surgery. Before you try to figure out if your toe is destined for the scalpel, it’s important to understand these factors and what you need to consider before making a decision.
The Severity Of The Ingrown Toenail
The severity of your ingrown toenail is one of the primary factors that determines whether surgery will be needed. Mild cases of ingrown toenails can often be managed with at-home treatments, including soaking the affected foot in warm water, gently lifting the nail, and applying antiseptic creams. However, if the condition worsens or becomes recurrent, medical attention may be necessary.
The Frequency of Recurrence
If you are experiencing recurring ingrown toenails, it may be an indication that the problem lies deeper and requires a more permanent solution. Frequent recurrences could suggest an underlying anatomical abnormality, such as excessive nail curvature or nail plate thickening, which might necessitate surgical correction to prevent future occurrences.
Infection and Complications
Ingrown toenails that become infected can lead to significant pain, redness, and swelling. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause more severe complications. In cases where the infection is severe or has resulted in an abscess or cellulitis (skin infection), surgical intervention may be required to drain the abscess and remove the affected portion of the nail.
Chronic Pain And Impaired Mobility
Persistent pain and difficulty in walking or wearing shoes due to an ingrown toenail can significantly impact your quality of life. If conservative measures fail to provide relief or if the ingrown toenail is causing chronic pain and affecting your daily activities, surgery may be recommended to alleviate the discomfort and restore mobility.
Underlying Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or peripheral artery disease, can complicate the management of ingrown toenails. These conditions impair blood circulation and compromise the body’s ability to fight infections, increasing the risk of serious complications. If you have an underlying condition that affects the health of your feet, your healthcare provider may recommend surgery as a preventive measure to avoid potential complications.
Your Treatment Options
When surgery is necessary, there are different surgical procedures available to address ingrown toenails, including:
Partial Nail Avulsion: This procedure involves removing a portion of the affected nail and the underlying nail bed to prevent future ingrowth. It may be performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis.
Total Nail Avulsion: In rare cases where the ingrown toenail is severe or recurring, complete removal of the toenail may be recommended. This procedure can be performed using chemical destruction, laser, or surgical excision.
Matrixectomy: If the ingrown toenail is caused by excessive nail curvature or thickening of the nail plate, a partial or complete removal of the nail matrix may be performed to prevent regrowth of the problematic section.
Final Thoughts…
While many cases of ingrown toenails can be managed with conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be necessary in certain situations. The decision to proceed with surgery will depend on factors such as the severity of the ingrown toenail, frequency of recurrence, presence of infection or complications, chronic pain, impaired mobility, and underlying medical conditions.
If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort or notice signs of infection, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional who can evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment, which may include surgery to provide long-term relief and prevent future complications. Book an appointment at our Northwich-based clinic today and one of our highly trained podiatrists will evaluate your ingrown toenail and let you know if surgery is required.
