[Unguis incarnatus-conservative or operative treatment? A practical treatment algorithm]

Area of Science:

• Podiatry
• Dermatology
• Primary Care Medicine

Background:

• Ingrown toenails (unguis incarnatus) are a frequent primary care issue.
• Inadequate treatment can lead to complications and recurrence.
• Patient education on nail complexity is crucial for compliance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a practical diagnostic and treatment algorithm for ingrown toenails.
• To guide management strategies for acute and chronic cases.
• To emphasize the importance of informed consent in surgical interventions.

Main Methods:

• Development of a diagnostic and treatment algorithm for unguis incarnatus.
• Review of conservative and surgical treatment options based on case severity.
• Emphasis on patient education and informed consent procedures.

Main Results:

• Consistent conservative treatment is effective for mild acute ingrown toenails.
• Surgical procedures preserving the nail matrix are recommended for moderate to severe acute cases.
• Elective partial matrixectomy is an option for chronic ingrown toenails without acute infection.

Conclusions:

• A structured algorithm improves ingrown toenail management.
• Tailored treatment based on severity (conservative vs. surgical) is essential.
• Thorough patient information and consent are prerequisites for effective treatment and prevention of complications.