Conservative management of a severe case of onychocryptosis at a podiatric clinic—A case report

Abstract

Background Onychocryptosis, also known as ingrown toenails or ungues incarnati, is a fairly frequent condition, with global prevalence of approximately 20%. Objectives This study is aimed at discussing possible conservative management of severe onychocryptosis, with a case report. Methods Conservative approach is effective in reducing or even entirely correcting underlying nail deformities. Eliminating nail fold inflammation is necessary prior to the bracing procedure. The non‐surgical approach combined with proper wound treatment of the involved nail folds is a promising alternative for a growing number of patients. Results Nail plate deformities may be largely corrected or fully eliminated. As demonstrated by our case report, even advanced stages of onychocryptosis may be effectively treated with nonsurgical modalities. Conclusion Proper podiatric care facilitates conservative approach to management of ingrown toenails, improving the patient's overall wellbeing and eliminating pain. The prerequisite for nonsurgical correction of the nail plate is treating inflammation first. Conservative correction is more aesthetically pleasing and less emotionally disturbing to the patients than partial or complete surgical avulsion. Lesser invasiveness is an advantage especially in the case of patients with chronic comorbidities.

Two case studies of the treatment of simple onycholysis with disappearing nail bed caused by trauma by combined pharmacological, orthonyxia and taping methods

“…The variety of available orthonyx braces allows for their individual selection depending on the degree of nail plate penetration into the shafts, its thickness and length 7,8 . Even severe cases of onychocryptosis with paronychia can be successfully treated with this method 9 . In literature, some variable methods of nail fold taping can also be found 10–12 .…”

“…7,8 Even severe cases of onychocryptosis with paronychia can be successfully treated with this method. 9 In literature, some variable methods of nail fold taping can also be found. [10][11][12] Well documented are slit tape-strap procedure, Nishioka's procedures and anchor technique.…”

Onychocryptosis: A review of epidemiology, risk factors, classification, complications and effective therapeutic strategies.

“…The final, fifth stage signifies the postoperative state, where 5a indicates the possibility of continued ingrowth, and 5b is associated with the presence of an additional nail [11,13].…”