Efficacy of a tip of the big toe remodeling in the distal nail embedding with bone overgrowth of the distal phalanx

Abstract

IntroductionDistal nail embedding due to hyponychium hypertrophy can be caused by traumatic or surgical avulsion of the nail. As a consequence of these changes, the nail plate is blocked through the deformed tip of the toe. Changes that occur at the tip of the big toe are due to bone growth on the dorsal surface of the distal end of the distal phalanx. This study aimed to present a surgical technique for the treatment of hypertrophy of the tip of the toe and evaluate its effectiveness. Material and methodsThe surgical technique involved remodeling of the tip of the big toe, with removal of the hypertrophied bone of the distal phalanx. The procedure was assessed by using a questionnaire. ResultsWe included the 108 distal embedded nails. A total of 85% of respondents were satisfied with the procedure. Nearly 80% of patients rated the cosmetic effect as good or very good. ConclusionsThe technique was an effective treatment and increased the quality of life of those with disorders of nail growth associated with hypertrophy of the tip and hyponychium, with bone overgrowth.