Onychoplasty with Carbon Dioxide Laser Matrixectomy for Treatment of Ingrown Toenails

Abstract

Ingrown toenails are one of the most common pathologic conditions encountered in podiatric medical practice. Many methods of treatment for ingrown toenails have been used and studied, including chemical matrixectomies, surgical approaches, and CO(2) laser ablation. This study is a retrospective review of a new technique that consists of resection of the involved nail matrix using a No. 15 blade and controlled cauterization using a CO(2) laser. The technique was performed on 381 painful ingrown toenails, and all of the patients were followed up postoperatively for an average of 34 months. The results showed minimal pain, a low recurrence rate, rapid return to activity, and good cosmesis.

Platelet Gel for the Surgical Treatment of Onychocryptosis

“…Another disadvantage of using phenol in chemical ablation is its possible carcinogenic properties. 23,24 The Suppan technique no. 1 for removal of an ingrown nail was developed by Dr. R. Suppan in 1958.…”

Controversies in the Treatment of Ingrown Nails

“…The erbium-YAG laser was also used for a modified wedge excision [71]. Other authors used the CO 2 laser for haemostasis after surgical matrix horn resection [72]. …”

Current Techniques of Toenail Surgery

“…As with sharp matricectomy, ablation is combined with total or partial nail avulsion. Ablation may be achieved through exposure to chemicals, 23,24 laser, 25 cautery, 26 or radiofrequency. 27 Each of these methods has been shown to be effective.…”