Nail-fold excision. 1, Toe is anesthetized, and tourniquet is applied. 2, Incision 5 to 10 mm long is made proximally from base of nail and 3 to 5 mm from lateral border of nail encompassing proximal nail fold; care is taken to leave nail matrix intact. 3 and 4, Lateral nail fold is excised with lateral elliptical sweep that proceeds distally to encompass all involved granulation tissue and adjacent soft tissues. 5 and 6, All skin and subcutaneous tissues at edge of nail are removed. 7, After excision of soft-tissue nail folds; note intact nail and preservation of nail matrix. 8, Electrocautery is used to obtain hemostasis, and wound is left open to heal by secondary intension.