Modified Phalanx Osteotomy for the Treatment of Distal Nail Embedding

Distal nail embedding is viewed as a type of ingrown toenail.It is defined as hypertrophy of the hyponychium.It causes by bone growth on the dorsal surface of the distal end of the distal phalanx on the tip of the big toe.This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of modified phalanx osteotomy.A retrospective analysis was performed on 17 patients with toe endocytosis treated in the combined onychopathy clinic.Lateral X-rays of the feet all indicated osteodysplasia of the distal toe bone, and modified phalangeal osteotomy was performed on the affected toes.The soft tissue of the distal toe hyperplasia was removed, and wedge osteotomy was performed on the upper middle third of the phalangeal bone to eliminate the obstruction on the distal end of the deck.The appearance of the affected toe, the degree of pain relief and satisfaction survey was analyzed via 12-week follow-up.All patients had a good recovery of toe appearance, no pain or recurrence of nail embedding.94.1% of patients were satisfied, and the overall score was (33.82.83)points.The incision healed in the first stage among 15 patients and healed in the second stage among 2 patients due to complications.Modified phalangeal osteotomy was an effective treatment for distal nail embedding.The technique increased the quality of life and satisfaction of those with distal nail embedding.