Chemical matricectomy with 10% sodium hydroxide for the treatment of ingrown toenails in people with diabetes.

BACKGROUND: Treatment of ingrown toenails using chemical matricectomy in patients with diabetes has been difficult, because delayed wound healing, wound infections, and digital ischemia can interfere with the procedure. Chemical matricectomy with 10% sodium hydroxide is an effective treatment for ingrown toenails in a normal population.

OBJECTIVES: Investigation of the effectiveness and safety of chemical matricectomy with 10% sodium hydroxide solution for ingrown toenails in patients with diabetes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty patients with diabetes with 40 ingrown toenails and 30 patients without diabetes with 41 ingrown toenails were enrolled in the study. After partial avulsion of the affected edge, germinal matrix was treated for 1 minute with 10% sodium hydroxide. Patients were observed on alternate days until complete healing was achieved and followed for up to 24 months for recurrence.

RESULTS: Assessment of the treatment in both groups for complete healing, postoperative pain, tissue damage, drainage, infections, and rate of recurrences revealed no statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS: The partial avulsion of the affected edge and the treatment of the germinal matrix for 1 minute with 10% sodium hydroxide preceded by matrix curettage is an effective and safe treatment modality for ingrown toenails in people with diabetes.