Nail surgery

The nail surgery service treats patients who need partial or a complete removal of toenails. The procedure can only be carried out if the patient has adequate blood supply to the foot.

The surgery is done under a local anaesthetic.

Exclusions:

• any patient requiring a general anaesthetic will be referred to the Royal Bournemouth Foundation Hospital Trust
• the procedure may not be carried out if it could have a harmful effect due to other health complications.
• any patient requiring an opinion as to whether surgery required will be referred to community podiatrist

Getting ready for surgery:

• do not drive after the procedure. You may drive the following day
• stop taking anticoagulant, like Warfarin, two days before your appointment. Restart on the evening after surgery
• it is not normally necessary to have antibiotics for this procedure unless your toe is infected, even if you usually have antibiotics when having dental treatment. Ask your own doctor for advice if you think you might need antibiotics
• book an appointment with the practice nurse at your doctor's surgery for three days after surgery to have the toe redressed
• bring a list of any tablets or medicines you are taking
• bring an open-toed shoe as the dressing on your toe means that normal footwear may not fit
• if you are under 16 years of age, you should be accompanied by a parent or guardian

Accessing the service

You will need GP or health professional referral to be considered for the treatment.