Comparison of phenol applications of different durations for the cauterization of the germinal matrix: an efficacy and safety study

Partial nail avulsion with phenol matricectomy is one of the most widely performed procedures for the treatment of ingrowing nails. We compared phenol applications of different durations with respect to efficacy and safety. The study included 148 ingrowing nails (grade 2-3) of 110 patients (54 males, 56 females). The patients were randomized to three groups for 1-, 2-, and 3-minute applications of phenol cauterization of the germinal matrix following surgical removal of ingrowing nails. Postoperative evaluations were made on days 2, 10, 16, 24, and 30 for pain, drainage, and tissue damage. Recurrences were recorded during a follow-up of 24 months. Improvements in pain, drainage, and tissue damage in each group were significant (p