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Jesper Jerry Schou Nielsen1, Rasmus Grim1, Jakob Fyhring Mortensen1
1Ortopædkirurgisk Afdeling, Sjællands Universitetshospital, Nykøbing F.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|November 12, 2024
Summary
Ingrown toenail treatment varies from conservative methods like proper footwear and nail braces for mild cases to surgical interventions for severe conditions. Oral antibiotics are generally not recommended based on current evidence.
Area of Science:
- Podiatry
- Dermatology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) is a prevalent condition impacting quality of life.
- Multiple treatment modalities exist, necessitating a review of current evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review evidence-based treatment options for ingrown toenails.
- To evaluate the efficacy and risks associated with conservative and surgical interventions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on ingrown toenail treatments.
- Analysis of non-surgical (footwear modification, nail bracing) and surgical outcomes.
- Assessment of complication rates and recurrence following interventions.
Main Results:
- Non-surgical treatments, including correcting ill-fitted footwear and using nail braces, are effective for mild ingrown toenails.
- Surgical options carry risks of infection (most frequent complication) and recurrence rates of 3-13%.
- Evidence does not support the general use of oral antibiotics for ingrown toenail treatment.
Conclusions:
- Conservative management is recommended for early or mild ingrown toenails.
- Surgical intervention should be considered for refractory or severe cases, with awareness of potential complications.
- Further research may clarify the role of adjunctive therapies, but current evidence does not favor routine antibiotic use.