Evaluation of the Recurrence Rate of Ingrown Toenail After a 45-Second Matrix Cauterization With Phenol

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Ingrown toenail is a very common nail disorder, and partial matricectomy by phenolization is considered the most effective treatment technique. However, the contact time of the phenol with the nail matrix remains debatable. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the recurrence rate of ingrown toenail after partial matricectomy by phenol for 45 seconds. METHODS A total of 1,460 surgeries were performed, with a photographic record of 802 pictures for a period of 6 months. The presence of any nail spicule or sign of ingrowth during follow-up was considered a recurrence. RESULTS A total of 802 surgeries were evaluated, with the most affected nails being the right (49.3%) and left (48%) big toes and most frequently the lateral fold (54.5%). The recurrence rate was 0.75% at 3 months and 1.87% at 6 months, and the medial nail fold had a higher recurrence rate than the lateral nail fold. CONCLUSION Forty-five seconds of contact time of 88% phenol with the nail matrix was enough and effective, resulting in low recurrence rates. Prospective studies are needed to better assess postoperative morbidity.