When it comes to thinking about medical care, toenails are literally about the farthest things from our minds. Sooner or later, though, one of a number of foot problems may make toenail surgery an option. If so, it may be reassuring to know that most of these procedures are done in the office setting, with patients walking afterward. A local anesthetic and a small procedure are usually all that are required for such treatments as removing a portion of the nail or nail root. Sometimes, in rare cases, the bone underneath a nail needs to be removed and this is done in a same day surgery center. Chemical cauterization is the most common procedure for ingrown toenails. Any mild discomfort from the procedure will generally pass within a few days.
Don’t despair if surgery is recommended for your ingrown toenail as opposed to antibiotic treatment. Antibiotic treatment does not always address the nail problem that caused the ingrown in the first place. We at Family Foot and Ankle Care use the latest techniques and sterilization methods. It is very important for diabetics to seek immediate care for this condition which could worsen and cause even greater problems.
Dr. Marc Fink
P.S. Toenail problems that may call for surgery include injury, ingrown or incurvated nails, and fungus or thickened toenails
