Understanding Nail Conditions:

Nail disorders encompass a spectrum of conditions, ranging from fungal infections and ingrown nails to structural deformities, trauma-related injuries, and nail unit cancers. These conditions can manifest as thickened, discolored, or painful nails, sometimes causing discomfort and impacting daily activities. Your board certified dermatologist or podiatrist can hep diagnose and recommend treatment options for these various nail problems.

Surgical Solutions:

A variety of surgical techniques have been developed to correct nail abnormalities and restore optimal nail health. These include:

1. Nail Biopsy: When nail changes raise suspicion of underlying skin conditions or malignancies, a nail biopsy may be performed. Through a nail bed or matrix biopsy procedure, we obtain a small sample of nail tissue for microscopic examination, enabling accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment planning.

2. Partial Nail Avulsion (PNA): PNA is a precise surgical procedure commonly employed to help treat ingrown toenails or obtain nail biopsy samples.

3. Total Nail Avulsion (TNA): In cases of severe nail trauma, chronic fungal infections, concerning nail bed or matrix lesions, TNA may be recommended. This procedure involves the complete removal of the nail plate which aids in visualization of the underlying issue.

4. Matrixectomy: Matrixectomy is a meticulous surgical approach aimed at permanently eliminating the portion of the nail matrix responsible for abnormal nail growth. This technique is particularly beneficial for recurrent ingrown toenails or persistent nail deformities, offering long-term relief and preventing future recurrences. It can be performed either surgically or chemical with compounds such as 88% phenol or 90% trichloracetic acid.

Patient-Centric Care:

At the Dermatology Institute of Detroit, patient education and personalized care are fundamental to our approach. Before recommending any surgical intervention, our fellowship-trained skin surgeon conducts comprehensive evaluations and engages patients in detailed discussions about their condition and available treatment options. We prioritize patient comfort, ensuring they feel informed, empowered, and supported throughout their journey to nail restoration.

Multidisciplinary Approach:

We work closely with baord-certified podiatric surgeons who have further specialization in nail procedures and may recommend a consultation with a podiatrist before any intervention is decided upon.

Comprehensive Recovery Support:

Following nail surgery, our team provides comprehensive post-operative care instructions to facilitate optimal healing and minimize complications. Patients receive personalized guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and pain management strategies to promote a smooth recovery process. We remain accessible to address any concerns or queries, scheduling follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

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Le M, Gabrielli S, Zloty D. Mohs Micrographic Surgery Is Equivalent to Nail Unit Excision or Amputation for Melanoma In Situ of the Nail Unit: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Dermatol Surg. 2023 Aug 1;49(8):755-758. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000003840. Epub 2023 May 29. PMID: 37249515.

Gou D, Nijhawan RI, Srivastava D. Mohs Micrographic Surgery as the Standard of Care for Nail Unit Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Dermatol Surg. 2020 Jun;46(6):725-732. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000002144. PMID: 31567588.