Nail Surgery Perth| Podiatry Treatment | Rightstep Podiatry
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Unit 4, 2 Panama Street

Canning Vale WA 6155

Nail Surgery

Nail surgery is a common procedure performed by most podiatrists to effectively treat an ingrown toenail – a nail that has pierced (or is pressing against) the adjacent skin of the toe causing pain and inflammation and sometimes infection.

Surgery may be required when an ingrown toenail repeatedly gets infected, is continually painful, the patient is unable to wear shoes or the condition inhibits work, sporting or other activities.

Before surgery is recommended, your podiatrist will explore other conservative treatment options.

Nail surgery performed by podiatrists

A partial nail avulsion is a minor nail procedure which aims to permanently treat ingrown toenails.  The procedure is usually performed in podiatrists rooms, takes around one hour and the patient is able to walk immediately afterwards.

What does a partial nail avulsion involve?

Your podiatrist will conduct a complete assessment, taking a medical history, a list of any medications that have been prescribed for you as well as considering any other clinical factors that will determine whether or not this surgery is suited to you.  An assessment will generally also include an examination of blood supply to the foot.

The procedure itself is performed under local anaesthetic via injection in the toe to numb the area.  The anaesthetic will wear off in about 2 hours.

Once numb a tight elastic ring called a tourniquet is applied to the toe to control bleeding and the area is prepped to minimise the risk of infection.

The offending portion of the nail is then lifted and trimmed away, generally without the toe being cut or stitched.  Both sides and the entire nail may be removed this way.  A chemical may also be used at this point to assist in preventing nail regrowth.

Once the procedure is completed, the tourniquet is removed and a sterile surgical dressing is applied.  The patient is able to walk immediately afterwards, however assistance getting home is strongly recommended.

What happens after the procedure?

Re-dressings at home and a review consultation with your podiatrist may be required over the two to three weeks following the procedure.  For the first few days after the procedure pain relief, and the use of open toed shoes may be necessary, however interference with day to day activities is generally minimal.

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