Why is this procedure done?
An ingrown toenail happens when your toenail grows and digs into the skin or your skin grows over your nail. This most often happens at the side of the big toe, but can happen to any toe. The skin can become red, swollen, and painful. Germs may enter and cause infection. ‚
What will the results be?
This procedure will help stop the nail from growing into your skin and prevent infection. It may also relieve pain and swelling. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history and look at your toe.
- Talk to your doctor about all the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Talk to your doctor about any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- Wear comfortable clothing and loose-fitting shoes. Bring clean, white socks to wear after the procedure.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
Your doctor will give you a drug to numb the area. All or part of the nail may be taken off. Sometimes, the doctor will use laser or some other substance to stop the nail from growing back. You may need stitches to close the skin. The whole procedure may take about an hour. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
You may feel pain after the procedure. Your doctor may give you drugs for this. Your doctor may give you drugs to help with swelling or to treat or prevent infection. Your doctor will tell you when to remove any bandages and how to take care of your toe while it heals. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- You may need to stay at home for a few days to let the wound heal.
- Talk to your doctor about the right amount of activity for you. Ask your doctor when you can go back to your normal activities like driving and work or school.
- Make it a habit to check all toes routinely.
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Too much swelling or bleeding
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Trim your nails regularly. Trim your nails straight across and no shorter than the edge of your toe. Do not round the corners.
- Practice proper foot hygiene. Wash your feet with soap and water.
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Wear comfortable shoes that are not too tight or too short.
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Signs of infection. These include a fever of 100.4 ‚ °F (38 ‚ °C) or higher, chills, wound that will not heal.
- Signs of wound infection. These include swelling, redness, warmth around the wound; too much pain when touched; yellowish, greenish, or bloody discharge; foul smell coming from the cut site; cut site opens up.
- If you have any new problems or concerns
- You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ‚
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00154&return_link=0 ‚
American Family Physician ‚
http://www.aafp.org/afp/2002/0615/p2557.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚