Silver Nitrate Chemical Matrix Cauterization After Partial Lateral Nail Avulsion: A Case Series

Background: Ingrown toenail [onychocryptosis] is a common condition encountered in primary care and minor surgical practice and most frequently affects the great toe [1,6]. Several surgical and chemical matricectomy techniques have been described to reduce recurrence, particularly in moderate to severe or recurrent cases [1,3]. This study presents a case series evaluating a modified technique using silver nitrate chemical matrix cauterization following partial lateral nail avulsion. Methods: This descriptive case series included patients with clinically diagnosed ingrown toenail treated at Shinas Health Complex. The standardized procedure consisted of partial lateral nail avulsion followed by chemical cauterization of the nail matrix using silver nitrate. Patients were followed to assess healing time, complications, and recurrence. Informed consent was obtained from all patients prior to the procedure. Results: Complete wound healing was achieved within two weeks in all patients. One patient with diabetes mellitus developed a localized postoperative infection, which resolved completely within 10 days with conservative management. Deposition of silver nitrate material beneath the nail plate was observed in one case without long-term complications. The overall success rate [non-recurrence] was approximately 95%. Conclusion: Silver nitrate chemical matrix cauterization after partial lateral nail avulsion appears to be a safe, effective, and practical technique for the management of ingrown toenail, with favorable healing time and a low recurrence rate.