SLR - February 2010 - Carla Benson
Reference:
Farrelly P.J. , Minford J. , Jones M.O. (2009). Simple Operative Management of Ingrown Toenail Using Bipolar Diathermy. Eur J Pediatric Surgery, 19,304-306.
Scientific Literature Reviews
Reviewed by: Carla Benson, DPM
Residency Program: Englewood Hospital and Medical Center
Podiatric Relevance:
Ingrown toenails (IGTN) are an everyday occurrence for the practicing podiatrist. This article reports on a simple technique that lends itself as an excellent alternative to the more technically difficult procedures when conservative treatment fails.
Methods:
This is a retrospective chart review of all patients undergoing IGTN surgery at the Royal Liverpool Childrens NHS Trust over a 7-year period. All biopolar diathermy matricectomies performed by pediatric surgeons were reviewed . Patients were given satisfaction questionnaires to fill out, as well as being followed clinically in the outpatient clinic.
Results:
241 of the 302 patients returned for follow-up for a period of 5.5 months. No significant complications were identified. 36 patients required multiple procedures leading to a 9.9% recurrence rate. Of the 73 patients (24%) who filled out the satisfaction questionnaire , there was a 97.2% satisfied/very satisfied outcome rating.
Conclusions:
Bipolar diathermy matricectomy offers advantages of speed, simplicity, minimal bleeding, minimal discomfort, few side effects, and technical ease. This procedure, unlike phenolization, doesn't require toxic chemicals even though the recurrence rate appears similar . This procedure appears to require minimal training and yet may be able to avoid the need for hospital referrals.