An injury that results in the loss of toenail or fingernail is called an avulsion. Trauma to the area may result in the complete or partial removal of nails.
Surgical nail avulsion can also remove nails partly or completely. During the
procedure, a doctor may remove it completely or place part of it back into place. The nail bed may also be repaired.
A surgical nail avulsion may be needed for those who are experiencing:
• Complete nail loss as a result of fungal infection
• Ingrown nail
• Thickened nail due to ageing, wearing of tight shoes, psoriasis, congenital and others
Symptoms of toenail or fingernail avulsion to look out for include swelling, discolouration and bloody crusting around or on the wound that has been lasting for TWO to THREE days. Taking the necessary, proper care of the
wound will encourage quick healing and reduce the likelihood of infection.
Telltale signs that a nail avulsion may be taking a turn for the worse is when:
• There is discolouration of the skin around the wound
• The wound starts to bleed heavier, and the blood is soaking through the bandage. A small amount of blood discharged is, however, expected and normal
Signs that an infection is taking place include:
• Pus draining from the affected area (fingers or toes)
• The appearance of red streaks that leads from the fingers or toe
• An increase in swelling, warmth, pain with visible redness
• Lymph nodes in the groin, armpits, or neck are swollen
• Fever
The wound usually heals within several weeks with proper aftercare.
Fingernails that have been removed completely usually take about SIX months to grow back, while toenails may take between 12 to 18 months.
The affected nails may look different when they grow back as a result of the injury suffered. Nails have been observed to grow back.
Once the wound has been treated and bandaged, prop up the injured area on a pillow each time you sit or lie down.
Keep it at a level above the heart. This is recommended to be done over the course of THREE days. Remember to leave the bandage on and avoid getting the stitches (if any) wet at least for the first 24 to 48 hours. Please cover the treated area with a plastic bag when showering.
The bandage can be removed after 1 or 2 days - depending on the doctor’s advice. This is to facilitate the cleaning of the wound, to be done gently with clean water TWO times a day. DO NOT scrub or soak the treated area, and use warm water to loosen the bandage should it stick to the wound. Avoid swimming.
Before bandaging the area after a wash, a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, may be applied. Repeat this method with every wash.
Do not remove any stitches on your own; best to leave it to the doctor to get it done. Heed the doctor’s advice in regards to pain medications, aftercare and other matters pertaining to the care and healing of the wound.
Do ask any questions that you may have in regards.