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The Nail Avulsion Process: What You Need to Know!
Published: Mar 09, 2024
Nail avulsion might sound scary, but it's a common procedure to help with painful nail issues. Here's what you need to know about it.
What is Nail Avulsion?
Nail avulsion is a medical procedure where all or part of a nail is removed from the nail bed. This is often done to alleviate pain from ingrown or curved nails. It's a necessary step for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. While the procedure can be painful, proper anesthesia is used to ensure patient comfort.
Why is Nail Avulsion Needed?
Nail avulsion is primarily performed to address conditions like ingrown toenails or when a nail becomes too damaged. It allows doctors to properly examine and treat the underlying issues. In some cases, it helps in applying medications more effectively, especially for fungal infections. The procedure not only provides relief but also helps prevent future complications.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The nail avulsion process is relatively straightforward, beginning with proper anesthesia to numb the area. The nail is then carefully lifted and removed using specialized tools. Patients are advised to rest and elevate the affected area post-procedure to aid healing. Pain management and care instructions are provided to ensure a smooth recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper anesthesia, the procedure itself should not be painful.
Recovery varies but typically takes a week or two for the nail bed to heal.
Yes, but it's advised to wear open-toed shoes and keep the foot elevated.
Not always; it's recommended when other treatments haven't worked.
Wrapping Up
Nail avulsion is a helpful procedure for relieving nail-related pain and preventing future problems.
References
- Jellinek NJ. Nail surgery: practical tips and treatment options. Dermatol Ther 2007; 20:68.
- Richert B, Rich P. Nail surgery. In: Dermatology, 4th ed, Bolognia J, Schaffer J, Cerroni L (Eds), Elsevier, 2017.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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