Clubfoot is a condition present at birth where one or both feet points downwards and inwards. It is sometimes referred to as club foot and it normally occurs in less than 0.5% of births. It is more common in boys than girls.
The cause of club foot is still unclear. It has been suggested that genetics may be a factor, but it is not proven.
50% of cases of club foot can be diagnosed with an ultrasound before birth.
Matrixectomy with phenolization- This procedure involves removing the nail partially or totally and ablating (destroying) the root using a weak acid called phenol. This will cause permanent ablation of the root of the offending nail and prevent ingrown nail recurrence. This procedure is successful 95% of the time. The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes and can be performed in our rooms using local anaesthesia with or without sedation. Post operatively you will be required to soak your toe and apply a daily dressing. Wearing open toe shoes for at least 3-4 days is recommended. You maybe required to take oral antibiotics. Most patients do not require pain medication following the procedure, and if needed Panadol is sufficient for pain management. You can go back to regular shoes after one week. This is not for everyone (especially if you don’t like seeing surgical procedures) but should you be keen to see a step by step process involved in a partial nail matrixectomy with phenolisation then please click here.
