Abstract: 【Abstract】 Objective To investigate clinical efficacy of curved fenestration and drainage procedure for the treatment of nail root abscess. Methods From June 2018 to October 2020, 72 patients with nail root abscess were included in Department of Dermatology, Henan Armed Police Corps Hospital. According to the size, location and severity of the abscess, minimally invasive curved fenestration and drainage procedure was performed under nerve block anesthesia to reduce the pressure and drain the pus. Dressing change was strengthened after surgery, and wound healing was monitored. Results Among the 72 patients, there were 37 males and 35 females, aged from 39 to 80 years （average: 63 years）. They all received curved fenestration and drainage procedure. Fifteen days after surgery, 66 cases were cured, 6 obtained marked improvement, and the response rate was 100%. Lesions did not completely subside in 1 patient due to poor blood glucose control and small fenestration area, while the condition of other patients was effectively controlled. Telephone follow-up was conducted 3 months after surgery, and no obvious nail defects or deformed appearance was observed in any of the cases. Conclusion Curved fenestration and drainage procedure is a simple approach for nail root abscess, with satisfactory efficacy.

Key words: Nail diseases, Abscess, Drainage, Nail root abscess, Fenestration