Nail shedding (Onychomadesis)

Nail shedding (Onychomadesis)

What is Onychomadesis?

Onychomadesis is the total or partial breaking of the nail due to various causes:

• Mechanical: Stepping on, wearing narrow and short-toed shoes, impacts, long-distance running, etc.
• Infections: Paronychia, caused by staphylococci or fungi.
• Systemic diseases: Systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, etc.
• Medication intake: Antibiotics, cytotoxics used in cancer treatment.

Treatment of Onychomadesis (Broken Toenails)

In the case of broken toenails, it is of great importance to apply some type of nail plate substitute with the aim of preventing the formation of adhesions in the unprotected area where the nail used to be and to serve as a guide for the growth of the new nail.

This protection is achieved through a technique called nail reconstruction. This technique is also indicated in the case of dystrophic (damaged) nails that are unlikely to regain their original appearance.

Before performing the nail reconstruction technique, the following factors must be assessed:

• There should be a complete absence of infection by fungi or other bacteria: if this is not the case, the infection must be treated before nail reconstruction can be performed.
• There should be a minimum length of nail, but sufficient to apply the reconstruction gel.

The reconstruction is carried out using a Clotrimazole gel following these steps:

• The area to be treated is cleaned with 96% alcohol and the remaining portion of the nail is lightly abraded.
• A thin layer of gel is applied to the prepared nail.
• The patient places the finger under a UV lamp for two minutes to polymerize the gel.
• The nail is cleaned with alcohol to complete the hardening process.
• The nail is shaped and groomed.

The results are very aesthetic; the nail formed with gel remains attached and serves as a guide for the growth of the new nail. It requires no maintenance and can be painted with nail polish. It is important to avoid trauma to prevent further breakage.

After approximately three months, the patient will return for the removal of any remaining gel.

For patients with definitively damaged nails, the replacement of the reconstructed nail is done every three to four months.

Ask for an appointment