Indications for surgery

Mostly nail bed inflammations can be treated conservatively with ointments or antiseptic baths. If nail bed inflammation is already more advanced or if fever and chills occur, antibiotics can be used. If the inflammation does not improve or even worsens, surgery should be performed.

In addition, surgical therapy should be considered for purulent nail bed inflammation. If the cause of nail bed inflammation is an ingrown nail, it may also be advisable to remove it surgically. Before the operation, an X-ray is usually taken to clarify whether the bone is also affected by the inflammation.

Duration of an operation

The duration of surgery for nail bed inflammation can vary depending on the extent of the inflammation. Depending on where the inflammation is located, a small lateral incision may be sufficient or part of the nail may have to be removed. If tendons or bones are also affected, the operation can take considerably longer. In most cases, however, the operation is only a minor procedure and therefore only takes about a quarter to half an hour. Since it is performed under local anesthesia and not general anesthesia, the patient is directly awake during the operation and at the end.

Risks of surgery

The risks of nail bed inflammation surgery are low or rare. Injury to nerves or vessels may occur during the operation.If an inflammation is very extensive, there is a possibility that the inflamed tissue cannot be completely removed and a new inflammation may occur after the procedure. In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the anesthetic may also occur. In most cases, however, such an operation proceeds without complications.

Which anesthesia do I need?

The operation of a nail bed inflammation is usually performed under local anesthesia. General anesthesia is not necessary for this procedure. Thus, the patient is awake during the operation, but does not feel any pain. A sedative can be given before the procedure if desired.