Super U Technique for Ingrown Nails

Area of Science:

• Podiatry
• Dermatology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Ingrown toenails (onychocryptosis) are a common condition, primarily affecting young adults and often involving the great toenail.
• Treatment strategies for ingrown toenails range from conservative measures to surgical interventions, tailored to the condition's severity and duration.
• Four distinct stages of ingrown toenails have been established, guiding therapeutic decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the clinical experience and surgical outcomes of the super U technique for treating ingrown great toenails.
• To characterize the patient population undergoing surgical treatment for ingrown toenails.
• To evaluate the efficacy and patient satisfaction with the super U technique.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted on patients surgically treated for ingrown great toenails using the super U technique.
• Patient demographics, disease stage, surgical approach, and postoperative management were analyzed.
• Healing time and postoperative complications were recorded.

Main Results:

• Ten patients (mean age 35.7 years) underwent the super U procedure for ingrown great toenails (9 unilateral, 1 bilateral).
• Stage II ingrown nails were most prevalent; half of the patients had prior surgical treatment.
• Mean healing time was 6 weeks, with one instance of postoperative infection and mild-to-moderate pain for a week. Most patients reported satisfaction with cosmetic outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The super U technique is highly effective for stage II ingrown toenails and recurrent cases.
• It is considered a treatment of choice for stage III or IV ingrown toenails with significant hypertrophic tissue.
• The technique demonstrates utility in managing complex and recurring ingrown toenail conditions.