Total nail avulsion – complete removal of the nail

Total nail avulsion is a minor surgical procedure used for complete removal of the nail plate, when the nail is affected by various conditions that cannot be treated through conservative methods.

The procedure is recommended in situations such as:

• severe or recurrent ingrown nail
• persistent nail or periungueal infections
• nail trauma
• severe nail deformities or conditions
• some dermatological conditions of the nail

The intervention consists of complete removal of the affected nail, performed using special surgical instruments. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so the patient does not experience pain during the intervention.

After nail removal, the area is dressed, and the physician provides recommendations regarding local care and the healing process. In most cases, the nail may grow back over time, depending on the condition of the nail matrix.

The duration of the procedure is generally 15–30 minutes, and the patient can resume daily activities while following medical instructions.