Ingrown Toenail:
A small nail causing a big pain |
Melissa C. Verde DPM and Mehul J. Shah DPM
Larkin Community Hospital
Miami, Florida |
Subungual Exostosis
A subungual exostosis is a bony spur that grows off the tip of the bone lying underneath the toenail (sub- meaning
below and -ungual meaning nail). This bony prominence arises in response to chronic irritation or injury, like dropping an object
on the toe, and can be seen on x-ray. The overlying toenail is often thickened and malformed. The sides of the nail may curve
inward and pinch the adjacent skin causing an ingrown toenail.
If wearing shoes with a heightened toe box does not relieve pain, surgery is indicated. Your doctor will decide if the toenail
must be removed. A small incision is made at the tip of the toe and the bony spur is filed down. Your doctor may choose to do
the procedure in the office or in a surgical center. Following surgery, you will have a couple of sutures that will be removed
within 10 to 14 days. Pain medication will be prescribed as needed, but pain is usually minimal.
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