Onychocryptosis-phenol burn fiasco

Abstract

Ingrowing toenails, onychocryptosis, are a common condition that can be treated conservatively or surgically. Conservative treatment often fails necessitating operative intervention. Surgical treatments include wedge resection, Zadik's procedure and nail removal with ablation of the germinal matrix by phenol. The following report describes a 15-year-old male footballer who sustained burns following phenol treatment, resulting in amputation of his left great toe, as well as suggestions to avoid any similar complications.