Partial matricectomy with cryotherapy in treatment of ingrown toenails

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of cryotherapy applied for the purpose of matricectomy following partial nail removal in treatment of ingrown nails. Methods: Between 2010 and 2013, 76 ingrown toenails of 62 patients were included in this prospective study. Following partial toenail removal, matricectomy with cryotherapy was performed. The lateral nail matrix was frozen for 45 seconds with open spray and spot-freezing technique using liquid nitrogen. Patients were followed up for a mean of 17.6 months (range: 12–44 months). Results: Wound recovery had occurred by 3-week follow-up. Recurrence in the form of spicule growth in 2 ingrown nails was detected on 6-month follow-up. Matricectomy application with cryotherapy was successful in the remaining 74 ingrown nails. Conclusion: Destruction of the nail matrix with cryotherapy following partial toenail removal for ingrown nails was found to be an effective treatment with a low recurrence rate.