Our Services
Partial Nail Avulsion
Ingrown toenails can be a persistent and painful problem. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, a more permanent solution may be required. One such effective treatment is a partial nail avulsion.
This procedure performed by us, offers long-term relief from the discomfort and complications associated with ingrown toenails. On this page, we’ll discuss why a partial nail avulsion may be necessary, what the procedure entails, and what you can expect during the recovery process.
Why is a PNA Necessary?
A PNA is often recommended when an ingrown toenail becomes chronic, recurrent or displays any of the below complications.
- Severe Pain and Discomfort: If the pain from an ingrown toenail is affecting your daily activities and conservative treatments haven’t helped, a PNA may be the best option.
- Recurrent Infections: Chronic ingrown toenails can lead to repeated infections, which can cause further complications if not treated properly.
- Failed Conservative Treatments: When methods such as proper nail cutting, antibiotic treatments, and other non-surgical interventions do not provide lasting relief, a more permanent solution is needed.
What is the Process for a PNA?
A PNA is a minor surgical procedure, performed in the clinic by our podiatrists, that involves the removal of a portion of the toenail to prevent it from growing into the skin. Below is a step-by-step overview of what the procedure involves:
- Initial Assessment
First we conduct a thorough examination of your toenail and discuss your medical history to ensure that a partial nail avulsion is the right treatment for you. If this is your first ever appointment with us we will trim your toenail and remove the offending piece of nail conservatively, as we would in any appointment. If we decide to perform a PNA we’ll set aside a long appointment specifically for this. - The PNA Procedure
- Local Anaesthetic: A local anaesthetic is administered to numb the affected toe. This ensures that you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
- Nail Removal: First we remove the side edge of the nail. Only the problematic part of the nail is taken out all the way down to the nail matrix (where the nail grows from).
- Nail Matrix Sterilisation: To make this procedure permanent the nail matrix must be treated with a chemical (such as phenol) to prevent the nail from regrowing and causing future problems. This step is crucial for providing a long-term solution.
- Dressing: After the nail segment is removed, the toe is flushed to deactivate the phenol and then dressed with a sterile bandage to protect the area, minimise risk of infection and promote healing.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Recovery from a PNA is typically straightforward, but it’s essential to follow the aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing. Here’s what you can expect after the procedure:
- Initial Healing: The toe may be sore and swollen for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief can help manage any discomfort.
- Wound Care: Keep the toe and dressing clean and dry. We will provide specific instructions on how to care for the toe. You will not remove your dressing prior to the follow-up appointment.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Typically we will schedule a follow-up appointment 2-3 days after the procedure to monitor the healing process, change the dressing and address any concerns.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and wear open-toed or loose-fitting shoes to prevent pressure on the toe.
- Long-Term Results: Once healed, the ingrown toenail should not recur in the treated area.
If you’re struggling with chronic ingrown toenails, a partial nail avulsion may be the solution. Feel free to give us a call to book an assessment appointment and let us help you, help your toes.