Rapid atraumatic nail plate removal using the cordless cautery unit.
This article describes the use of a handy, battery-powered, thermocautery unit to cut through the nail plate when performing dermatologic surgery involving nail tissue. Thermocauterization of keratin is a simple, atraumatic method of removing portions of the nail plate, so that the underlying soft tissue may be biopsied or treated. The units are inexpensive and safe to operate.
Snow
S N
SN
Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Mohs Surgery Clinic, Madison 53705.
Zweibel
S
S
Lo
J S
JS
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004564:Electrocoagulation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009262:Nails / Q000601:surgery*