The results of surgery for nail dystrophy of the hallux in children.

The efficacy of surgery for nail dystrophy of the hallux has been evaluated in 52 children studied retrospectively. 69 primary procedures were carried out with an overall symptomatic recurrence rate of 40%. When used as a primary procedure, avulsion alone had a symptomatic recurrence rate of 54% and Zadik 's procedure 29%. When avulsion was repeated, the recurrence rate rose to 100%. Avulsion alone cannot be recommended, but if surgery is contemplated Zadik 's procedure is the most effective.