NAIL BED REPAIR
If you need a nail bed repair, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What Is A Nail Bed Repair?
Nail bed repair is a surgical procedure performed to treat injuries or damage to the nail bed, which is the soft tissue located beneath the nail plate. The nail bed is crucial for nail growth and the overall health of the nail. Injuries to the nail bed can occur due to trauma, crush injuries, lacerations, or infections.
Indications:
- Nail bed repair is indicated when the nail bed has been injured, leading to nail deformities, lacerations, or loss of tissue.
- The procedure aims to restore the normal anatomy of the nail bed, promote proper nail growth, and prevent long-term complications.
Procedure:
- The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia to numb the affected finger or toe.
- During the procedure, the surgeon carefully examines the nail bed and may remove any damaged or nonviable tissue.
- The nail bed is then repaired using sutures to close any lacerations or gaps in the tissue.
- In some cases, the surgeon may use a nail bed splint or bolster to support the repair and protect the nail bed during the initial healing phase.
- If a portion of the nail is missing or severely damaged, a nail bed graft or substitute material may be used to fill the gap.
Recovery:
- The recovery time after nail bed repair depends on the extent of the injury and the type of surgical technique used.
- Patients may need to keep the finger or toe elevated and avoid putting pressure on the repaired nail bed during the initial healing period.
- It is essential to follow any postoperative instructions provided by the surgeon, such as keeping the nail area clean and dry.
Outcomes:
- The success of nail bed repair depends on various factors, including the extent of the injury, the surgical technique used, and the patient’s adherence to postoperative care.
- In many cases, nail bed repair results in proper nail growth and function, with minimal long-term complications.
Nail bed repair should be performed by a qualified hand surgeon or a healthcare professional experienced in treating nail injuries to ensure the best possible outcomes. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, and patients should thoroughly discuss the benefits, risks, and potential complications with their surgeon before proceeding with nail bed repair.