From the Research
Liquid phenol should be applied for 30 seconds during a partial or complete toenail removal procedure. This application time has been shown to offer a shorter healing time without affecting the effectiveness of the procedure, as demonstrated in a randomized double-blind clinical trial 1. After the nail portion is removed, the physician will apply the phenol solution to the exposed nail matrix using a cotton applicator, ensuring complete coverage of the nail bed. The area is then thoroughly irrigated with alcohol or saline to neutralize the phenol and prevent damage to surrounding tissues. This chemical matrixectomy prevents regrowth of the removed portion by destroying the cells that produce the nail. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and patients should expect some drainage and healing time of 2-6 weeks afterward. Proper aftercare includes daily soaking, application of prescribed antibiotic ointment, and keeping the area clean and bandaged.
Some key points to consider when performing this procedure include:
- The use of phenol has been shown to be highly effective in preventing ingrown toenail recurrence, with success rates of 95-98% 2
- Phenolization combined with simple avulsion of a nail is more effective than the use of more invasive excisional surgical procedures to prevent symptomatic recurrence at six months or more 2
- The addition of phenol, when performing a total or partial nail avulsion, dramatically reduces the rate of symptomatic recurrence, but may increase the rate of post-operative infection 2
- A study comparing the efficacy of phenol and trichloroacetic acid found that both agents have high success rates, but phenol may have a faster postoperative healing time 3
Overall, the application of liquid phenol for 30 seconds during a toenail removal procedure is a safe and effective treatment for ingrown toenails, with a high success rate and relatively low risk of complications.