Treating Fungal Nails
Here at ZW Clinics there are a few methods to treating fungal nails. Our main treatment is the Launca method.
Lacuna method for treating fungal nails...
The Lacuna method is the term used for a fungal nail treatment which involves drilling very small holes in the nail plate to aid the penetration of antifungal solutions.
Consultation Length
Up to 30 minutes
Treatment Cost
Varies between £65.00 - £115.00 (depending on the number of nails treated)
How does it work?
It it is now believed that the active part of the fungal nail infection is on the nail bed (the skin beneath the nail) and not the nail itself. The nail plate then acts as a barrier between the antifungal solutions and the fungal nail infection.
Small holes are therefore drilled into the nail plate to allow the antifungal solutions to penetrate into the nail bed and reach the active portion of the infection. The pressure from footwear on the nail helps to redistribute the treatment under the surface of the nail. This then stops the fungus spreading and encourages the healthy nail to grow out, along with the drilled holes. As with any antifungal treatment, this takes time. The infection will clear only as fast as your toenails grow, which can take up to 18 months.
Who can benefit from the Lacuna Method?
People with a mild to moderate fungal nail infection and infection that doesn’t reach past the cuticle, as antifungal solutions cannot access this portion of the nail.
Symptoms of a fungal nail infection include:
Nail thickening
Nail discolouration
Brittle nail texture
Build up of debris under the nail
Lifting of the nail
White patches on the nail plate
What does the Lacuna Method involve?
Step 1
A thorough examination of the nail will take place and advice will be given regarding how to prevent future reinfection.
Step 2
A photo will be taken of the nail so we can monitor the progress.
Step 3
The nail is then cleaned and prepared.
Step 4
Micro holes are drilled into the nail plate around the infected portion. This may feel like a hair being plucked.
Step 5
Home care advice is given so you know what is required in between appointments.
Step 6
The nail will be reviewed around 6-8 weeks later. Further holes may be drilled if necessary and this will continue until the infection has cleared.
Your first appointment will need to be an Initial Consultation:
Initial Core Routine Podiatry/Chiropody Consultation
