Treatment of ingrown toenail with proximolateral matrix partial excision

Introduction: Ingrown toenail is a common condition. Although many methods for treatment are available, there is no consensus on the optimal treatment. Aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term efficacy of proximolateral matrix partial excision in the treatment of ingrowing toenail. Materials and Methods: In this study a total of 60 patients with ingrowing toenail were enrolled, who were managed with proximolateral matrix partial excision. The patients were evaluated 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after the surgery. Patients’ satisfaction with the general appearance of their nails was investigated at the 6-month follow-up. Visual analog scale (VAS) was used for pain evaluation. Results: The healing time and recurrence were the primary indicators described before. In this study we did not record any postoperative complications or complaints about the cosmetic outcome. The mean healing period was 9.2 (6-15) days. There were only 2 recurrence of ingrown toenail, observed 6 months after treatment. The success rate after 6 months was thus 97%. Conclusion: Proximolateral matrix partial excision for the treatment of ingrown toenails is highly effective and the treatment of choice at our clinic because of its high success rate.