Phenol Dilution With Saline Solution Versus Alcohol in Partial Matricectomy for Onychocryptosis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Podiatry
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Onychocryptosis (ingrown toenails) significantly impacts patient quality of life.
• Chemical partial matricectomy using phenol is a standard treatment for onychocryptosis.
• The choice of solvent for phenol, specifically alcohol versus physiologic saline solution (PSS), has been debated, with in vitro studies favoring PSS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the in vivo efficacy and safety of PSS versus alcohol as solvents for phenol in chemical partial matricectomy.
• To evaluate postoperative outcomes and complications associated with each solvent.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective unicentric cohort study included patients undergoing partial chemical matricectomy with phenol for onychocryptosis.
• Patients were divided into two groups based on the solvent used: alcohol or PSS.
• Clinical data and postoperative outcomes, including complications, were collected and compared over a 12-month follow-up period.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences were observed between the alcohol and PSS groups regarding postoperative pain, infection, or bleeding.
• Recurrence rates, duration of analgesic use, and need for antibiotic therapy were similar in both groups.
• The study population had a median age of 20 years, reflecting typical onychocryptosis demographics.

Conclusions:

• Physiologic saline solution (PSS) is demonstrated to be as effective and safe as alcohol when used as a solvent for phenol in chemical partial matricectomy.
• The findings support the use of PSS as a viable alternative to alcohol in this dermatological procedure.