Neutralized Chemical Matricectomy with the Winograd Method in the Management of Ingrowing Toenail

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Ingrowing toenail is a common condition provoking pain, inflammation and functional limitation. Many surgical methods have evolved over the years for its treatment. The most important aspect of treatment of this problem is to prevent recurrence. The purpose of this paper was to study the effectiveness of combining the standard Winograd technique with neutralized chemical matricectomy to reduce the chances of recurrence and expedite postoperative recovery. Materials and methods Between 2006 and 2013, 33 patients (18 males, 15 females); with mean age 37.39 years (range 16 to 65 years) with 38 ingrowing toenails were treated with the standard Winograd technique combined with phenol matricectomy. The patients were evaluated in subsequent follow-ups for postoperative relapse, pain score (VAS) and time return to daily activities and ability to wear footwear and overall satisfaction. The mean follow-up period was 3.57 years (range 2 to 7 years). Results A total of 94.73% patients were satisfied with the overall outcome. The average return to normal shoe-wear was 1.54 weeks and the average return to normal activity was 1.18 weeks. Recurrence was seen in two patients (5.26%), 5 and 6 months after surgery. Four patients had delayed healing. None of the patients had any deep infection or neurovascular complications. Conclusion The Winograd technique when combined with neutralized phenol matricectomy is associated with a very low recurrence and infection rate. It allows early postoperative recovery and good cosmetic results with a high level of patient satisfaction. How to cite this article Agarwala S, Sobti AS, Mohrir G. Neutralized Chemical Matricectomy with the Winograd Method in the Management of Ingrowing Toenail. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia-Pacific) 2014;1(2):55-59.