Professor Dr. Syed Samsuddin Ahmed

Ingrown Nail (Ingrown nail) can occur on any finger or toe nail. In most cases, the nail of the big toe is higher. Usually there is inflammation and infection of the nail or skin on both sides of the nail. Bacterial or fungal infections usually occur on the hands and toes.

Let’s find out the reasons: a) Use of tight shoes. b) Excess moisture and untidiness between the two toes. C) Injured toes and Improper Nail Trimming. (abnormally cut nails). d) Trauma or finger pricking. e) Injury by sharp pins and objects. f) Abnormally diabetic.
Symptoms and signs: a) Red color inflammation. b) Finger pain. c) Swelling of nail folds in fingers. d) Swelling or accumulation of pus. e) Basing in nail folds.
Treatment: a) Examination of the pus to identify the type of bacteria and fungi and determine the correct antibiotic. B) Conservative/Non operative Treatment : Giving antibiotic and anti fungal medicine. c) Keeping the toenails clean. d) Not wearing tight shoes.
Operative Treatment : a) In case of excessive swelling or accumulation of pus, removal of pus through operation. b) Excision of the inflamed skin and part of the nail fold and cleaning of the base. c) Inserting the nail border under the nail fold through a figure of eight (8) suture. D) Broad Spectrum Antibiotics and anti-fungal medicines are given. e) Taking medicine for at least 2 weeks. f) Keeping the base of nails and finger folds clean.

Author: Professor Dr. Syed Samsuddin Ahmed
MBBS, DTM, PhD (Plastic Surgery, Japan)
Former Divisional Head, Burn and Plastic Surgery Unit,
Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka
Former Director Micro-Surgical Research
Yale University, USA
Senior Consultant, Ibn Sina Hospital, Dhanmondi.