What is Nail Removal: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Definition & Overview

Nail removal, as the term implies, is a procedure that involves removing the nails (either surgically or non-surgically) as a form of treatment following a severe infection or traumatic injury. Since the nails protect the fingertips and are considered as a valuable part of the peripheral circulation, they rarely need to be removed. However, nail removal is performed when the damage is causing severe complications and if it is the only option to fix the problem.

Who Should Undergo and Expected Results

Nail removal may become necessary for those who have:

• Onychocryptosis or ingrown nails, where removing the nail can help ease the pain and stop the infection, if any
• Onychogryposis, also known as nail deformities or curved nails caused by infection, Trauma to the hands and nails, tumour, and self-mutilation.
• Onychomycosis, a fungal infection affecting the nails
• Paronychia
• Diseased nail/s

Individuals who are experiencing the symptoms below are also candidates for the procedure:

• Redness and swelling around the nails
• Pain
• Pus coming out of the nails

Nail removal is expected to relieve symptoms or prevent them from progressing or new ones from developing. If there is an infection, the procedure is expected to allow the skin to heal faster without the nail getting in the way.

How Does the Procedure Work?

Nail removal can be performed using surgical or non-surgical method. The latter is highly preferred by both surgeons and patients primarily because it is painless. It is performed to remove the damaged or diseased nail while making sure that unaffected parts remain unharmed. Meanwhile, the former is typically performed under local anaesthesia. In other cases, general anaesthesia is administered depending on the preference of the patient and the recommendation of the doctor. There is also a possibility that procedural sedation may be used, but it is not typically suggested.

During the nail removal surgery, the patient will be asked to lie supine and to place the hands on an armrest with the palms facing down. The finger will then be cleansed and a local anaesthesia will be administered to ring-block the finger. This is followed by placing a finger tourniquet on the base of the finger to prevent bleeding. The doctor then creates an incision on the edges of the nail and a small periosteal elevator is used to press the nail bed. The nail is then easily removed using a hermostat.

In a non-surgical procedure, the doctor puts an adhesive cloth on the unaffected area before urea ointment is applied to the surface of the nail. The nail is then covered and protected using plastic and tape, which remains in place for the next 7 to 10 days. After this period, the nail will soften, making it easier for the doctor to remove it by simply lifting it away from the nail bed. In some cases, the diseased portion is cut out.

The affected nail can also be removed by electrosurgery or by using laser technology. This is a more recent development in this field and has already shown high success rates with reduced risks. It is done by using laser technology to remove some parts or the entire nail. Some electrosurgical techniques include electrosurgical ablation of the nail bed, high-frequency laser matrixectomy, and electrosurgical excision of the lateral wall hypertrophy caused by ingrown nails. Laser treatment is also used for fungal infections of the toenail due to the ability of laser to heat and destroy fungi in a selective manner, protecting the surrounding tissue in the process. The procedure is faster and is generally painless; it is also more effective than oral or topical treatment options and causes little recovery and downtime.

Once removed, nails take some time to grow back. It usually takes about six months before the fingernails grow to their normal length. For toenails, the re-growth period is longer, usually taking about 12 to 18 months.

Possible Complications and Risks

The following are the possible complications and risks that are commonly associated with the procedure:

• Bleeding
• Pain and swelling
• Infection and the presence of pus
• Burning sensation due to the chemicals and lasers used in electrosurgical nail removal.
• There is a chance that the new nail will grow back disfigured.
• The previous symptoms may begin to show again after some time.
• The pain may cause difficulty in walking.
• The nail may become rough, thick, or grow back with a different color.

• The infection may also affect the tissue or bone surrounding the affected area.
  References:

• Heidelbaugh JJ, Lee H. Management of the ingrown toenail. Am Fam Physician. 2009;79(4):303-8.

• Ishikawa SN. Disorders of nails and skin. In: Canale ST, Beaty JH, eds. Campbell’s Operative Orthopaedics. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier Mosby; 2012:chap 87.

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What is Nail ⁢Removal: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Overview of Nail Removal



Nail removal refers to the deliberate⁣ and controlled removal of a fingernail or toenail. This​ procedure ⁣is commonly performed by healthcare professionals or nail technicians in various settings, including medical clinics, nail salons, and spas. The⁤ removal process involves separating the nail plate, also⁤ known as the ⁣hard, visible part of the nail, from the underlying tissue called the nail bed. ⁢



Benefits of Nail Removal



There​ are various reasons ‍why nail ⁤removal ​may be beneficial:



1. Treating Infections: ‌ Nail removal may be ​necessary to ‍treat ⁢fungal or bacterial⁤ infections​ of the nail. These infections can cause discoloration, thickening, and ‌crumbling of the nail.



2. Injury Management: If a nail becomes severely damaged or injured, removal can facilitate proper healing and reduce the risk‍ of‌ infection.



3. Removal of ‍Ingrown Nails: Ingrown nails, which⁣ occur when the nail grows inward into the ‌surrounding⁤ skin, can cause pain and discomfort. Nail removal ⁤can help prevent complications and provide ⁣relief.



4. Correction of Nail Disorders: Certain nail disorders, such as psoriasis or nail dystrophy, may require nail removal to allow⁢ for better management and treatment.



5. Aesthetic Purposes: ⁤ Nail removal may be desired for‍ cosmetic reasons, such as removing damaged or unsightly nails.



Expected Results of Nail Removal



Depending on the reason for removal, the expected results can vary. However, in‍ general, you can anticipate the following:



1. Relief‌ from Pain: If the ⁢nail removal was to address a painful condition, patients can expect significant pain relief.



2. Prevention of Infection: ‍ Proper nail removal can help eliminate infections ⁤and prevent their spread.



3. Restoration of Healthy Nail Growth: Removing a damaged or⁤ infected nail allows for ‌the growth of a new, healthy nail.



4. Improved Nail Appearance: Nail removal can lead ​to improved aesthetics, particularly if the‍ procedure was done for cosmetic reasons.



5. Temporary Sensitivity: ⁢ The nail bed may be sensitive and tender for some time ‍after⁢ the removal,⁢ but it ⁣typically resolves within a few days or weeks.



Conclusion



Nail‍ removal is a common and generally safe procedure ⁤that can address various medical and cosmetic‌ concerns related⁣ to ⁤the fingernails or⁣ toenails. If you⁢ consider nail removal, it is essential to⁤ consult a qualified healthcare practitioner or a nail technician for expert⁢ advice and ensure ⁣the procedure is performed safely‍ and effectively.