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Onychoplasty with 1064-nm Laser: Matrixectomy for Treatment of Ingrown Toenails
Abstract:
Onychocryptosis is a common pathology treated by podiatry medical services, and in a considerable percentage, surgical procedures are required to achieve a solution. There are multiple surgical approaches for ingrown toenails, both incisional procedures and nonincisional procedures, such as chemical matrixectomies and physical matrixectomies using carbon dioxide laser. This study presents a surgical procedure for onychocryptosis using a physical matrixectomy with a 1064-nm laser applied by means of a 400-μm optical fiber and surgical removal of the posterior cauterized tissue to achieve healing by primary intention. This technique was performed on 30 patients with onychocryptosis affecting the great toe (Mozena stages I and IIa), and all of the patients were followed up postoperatively for 12 months. The patients reported minimal postoperative pain, quicker surgical postoperative healing, rapid return to activities of daily living, and minor postoperative recurrence compared with previous studies using incisional procedures and chemical matrixectomies.
Insights
This study introduces a novel laser technique for ingrown toenails (onychocryptosis), offering faster healing and less pain. The physical matrixectomy with a 1064-nm laser shows promising results for onychocryptosis treatment.
Area of Science:
- Podiatry
- Surgical Innovation
- Laser Technology
Background:
- Onychocryptosis (ingrown toenails) frequently requires surgical intervention.
- Existing treatments include incisional and nonincisional methods like chemical or CO2 laser matrixectomies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel physical matrixectomy technique for onychocryptosis using a 1064-nm laser.
- To evaluate the efficacy and patient outcomes of this laser-based surgical procedure.
Main Methods:
- A physical matrixectomy was performed using a 1064-nm laser with a 400-μm optical fiber.
- Surgical removal of posterior cauterized tissue was employed for primary intention healing.
- The technique was applied to 30 patients with Mozena stages I and IIa onychocryptosis of the great toe.
Main Results:
- All 30 patients completed a 12-month follow-up.
- Patients reported minimal postoperative pain and quicker healing.
- A rapid return to daily activities and minor recurrence rates were observed.
Conclusions:
- The 1064-nm laser physical matrixectomy is an effective treatment for onychocryptosis.
- This technique offers advantages over traditional incisional and chemical matrixectomy methods.
- It provides a favorable option for patients with early-stage ingrown toenails.
