From the Research
Partial nail avulsion is a suitable treatment option for ingrown toenail with infection, but it is crucial to control the infection first with proper management, and the most recent evidence suggests that antibiotics may not be necessary in all cases. According to the most recent study 1, surgical options for ingrown toenails, including partial nail avulsion, are effective in treating the condition. The procedure involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail under local anesthesia, allowing the infected area to drain and heal. For recurrent or severe cases, a permanent partial nail avulsion with matricectomy (destruction of the nail matrix) may be recommended to prevent regrowth of the problematic nail edge.
Some key points to consider when treating ingrown toenails with infection include:
- Controlling the infection with proper management, which may or may not include antibiotics, as suggested by 2
- Using proper nail-trimming techniques and footwear with adequate toe space to prevent recurrence
- Applying antibiotic ointment and using daily warm water soaks with Epsom salt for 1-2 weeks after the procedure
- Considering matricectomy for recurrent or severe cases, as discussed in 3 and 4
It is essential to note that the use of oral antibiotics as an adjunctive therapy in treating ingrown toenails does not play a significant role in decreasing the healing time or postprocedure morbidity, as found in 2. Therefore, the decision to use antibiotics should be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the severity of the infection and the individual patient's needs.
In terms of specific treatment approaches, partial nail avulsion followed by either phenolization or direct surgical excision of the nail matrix are equally effective in the treatment of ingrown toenails, as discussed in 5. However, the choice of procedure depends on the severity and recurrence of the condition, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.
Overall, partial nail avulsion can be an effective treatment option for ingrown toenail with infection, but it is crucial to control the infection first and consider the individual patient's needs and preferences when making treatment decisions.