Chronic, severe onychocryptosis successfully treated with nail tube splinting in a 13-year-old girl with multiple prior failed matricectomies
Abstract
Onychocryptosis, also known as ingrown toenail, is caused by growth of the lateral edge of the nail into the nail fold. This results in inflammation of the invaded tissue. It is a common problem with ~70% of cases occurring in people between the ages of 12-30 years and causes significant discomfort, pain, and restriction in activity [1]. There is no standard treatment for onychocryptosis and numerous methods have been used, from conservative approaches such as proper nail trimming techniques to more invasive surgical procedures. All techniques risk the possibility of damage to the nail apparatus, prolonged healing time, and recurrence of disease.We describe a successful case of bilateral nail tube splinting in a pediatric patient with recurrent, severe onychocryptosis and history of multiple matricectomies.