A Modified Heifetz Method With a New Suture Technique in the Surgical Treatment of Ingrown Toenails

BACKGROUND Ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) is a common condition causing pain, inflammation, and functional impairment. Various surgical techniques exist, but recurrence and cosmetic outcomes remain concerns. OBJECTIVE This study evaluates the modified Heifetz method, incorporating a novel suturing technique, in comparison with the classical Heifetz method regarding recurrence rates, cosmetic satisfaction, and postoperative pain. METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on 214 patients, 104 treated with the classical Heifetz method and 110 with the modified method. Primary outcomes included recurrence rates, cosmetic satisfaction, pain levels, and time to return to activity. RESULTS Recurrence rates were significantly lower in the modified Heifetz group (2.7% vs 10.6%, p = .020). Cosmetic satisfaction was higher (96.4% vs 78.8%, p = .001), and postoperative pain was lower (visual analog scale: 0.06 ± 0.31 vs 0.76 ± 1.05, p = .001). Patients treated with the modified method returned to daily activities sooner (21.16 ± 10.78 vs 23.49 ± 9.58 days, p = .039). CONCLUSION The modified Heifetz method provides superior cosmetic outcomes, lower recurrence rates, and reduced postoperative pain, making it a viable alternative to the classical method.