Minor Nail Procedure
What is a Minor Nail Procedure?
This is a small procedure carried out to treat nail problems which cause pain such as ingrowing toenails. It involves taking part or all of the toenail away under a local anaesthetic. This is done as an outpatient appointment and is scheduled for 1 hour.
What happens?
A local anaesthetic will be administered into the base of both sides of the toe to numb the area.
Once your toe is numb:
- A small rubber ring (tourniquet) will be placed on the toe
- The problem section of the nail will be removed, in some cases the whole nail may be removed
- Phenol (a chemical) is applied to the nail bed to prevent the nail from re-growing. It is your choice if the chemical is applied or not, if not then the nail will re-grow but is likely to be problematic in the future
- The rubber ring (tourniquet) is removed
- The toe is dressed in a bandage
What happens after?
- Verbal and written instructions will be given to you and a dressing pack will be provided
- Your toe will be numb for up to 4 hours
- You should rest with your foot up for 24 hours after the procedure to reduce any bleeding
- 24 hours after the procedure you will need to remove your dressing and replace it with a new dressing form the pack provided
- Once your new dressing is in place you can return to normal daily activities such as school or work – be careful with footwear and don’t knock your toe.
- You will need to re-dress your toe every day until it is healed. This will be roughly 6 weeks.
- If you need to return to the department for a review, please contact us – 02920 335 135
Useful tips
• You will need to bring sandals to accommodate the dressing
• You will be UNABLE to drive home from the procedure as your toe will be numb
• Most people feel very little or no pain after the procedure and during recovery
• When removing the bulky dressing the day after the procedure it is recommended to get the dressing wet as this will make it easier to remove.
Also in this section
Useful links
Contact Information
Podiatry Patient Management Centre,
Podiatry Services,
Cardiff Royal Infirmary,
Newport Road,
Cardiff
CF24 0SZ
For all enquiries call 02920 335135 or email Podcav@wales.nhs.uk
