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Copyright @ Pol J Cosmetol
Pol J Cosmetol 2011, 14(1): 27-33pl,en  Methods of non-surgical correction of ingrown nails - importance of the podologist as an intermediary between patient and doctorKatarzyna Kordus, Radosław Śpiewak Zakład Dermatologii Doświadczalnej i Kosmetologii, Wydział Farmaceutyczny, Collegium Medicum, Uniwersytet Jagielloński Summary The present article is devoted to the problem of ingrown nails. Surgical and non-invasive correction methods of ingrown nails are compared in it, presenting their pros and cons. Moreover, the problem of lacking Polish legislation in reference to the podologist´s profession, as well as difficulties in cooperation with doctors are outlined. In connection with insufficient spread of knowledge among general public and medical professionals in Poland of non-invasive correction ingrown nail, too often surgical ablation of the nail is carried out, which leads to exclusion of the patient from professional life for a dozen of days, and to excessive risk of complications. Podological treatment offers an instant relief, and a correction of the nail form with sustained patient´s activity. The cooperation between the doctor and the podologist would enable better education of patients regarding correct procedures with ingrown nails, and a quick response in the beginning phase, which would reduce the frequency of severe cases. A podologist can offer correction methods that would provide relief from the first pain symptoms up to advanced stages of ingrown nails. Surgical treatment seems only justified in cases of granulatoma and ulceration of the nailfold. The podologist can fill the gap between non-professional, patients´ self treatment, and operative intervention of a surgeon. Key words: ingrown nail, podologist, correcting wedge, ablation |