Pincer nails treated using zigzag nail bed flap method: results of 71 toenails

Area of Science:

• Podiatric Surgery
• Dermatology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Pincer nail deformity presents significant challenges including pain during daily activities, cosmetic concerns, and difficulties with nail care.
• Current management strategies often fail to achieve satisfactory nail form, necessitating innovative treatment approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce an original surgical technique for treating pincer nail deformity.
• To present the outcomes and efficacy of this novel surgical procedure.

Main Methods:

• The study employed the zigzag nail bed flap method on 71 toenails across 49 patients diagnosed with pincer nails.
• Patient demographics included an age range of 12-88 years, with a mean age of 48.6.

Main Results:

• The surgical intervention demonstrated no postoperative complications such as pain, infection, or noticeable scarring.
• Objective measurements using width and height indices confirmed significant improvement in nail form, validating the therapeutic effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Surgical intervention is recommended for pincer nail deformity due to the complex interplay of anatomical abnormalities.
• A holistic approach addressing the nail plate, nail bed, and phalanges concurrently is crucial for successful treatment.