Successful Excision and Nail Bed Reconstruction for Glomus Tumor of the Left Thumb

Glomus tumors are rare but intensely painful conditions, often misdiagnosed due to their elusive symptoms. These small vascular tumors, typically found beneath the fingernails, can severely impact daily life due to heightened sensitivity and sharp pain, especially when exposed to cold.

“Patients with glomus tumors often suffer for months or years before getting the right diagnosis. Prompt identification and precise surgical management are key to resolving the pain and restoring function,” says Dr. Leena Jain, an acclaimed plastic surgeon in Mumbai.

With specialized expertise in microsurgery, hand reconstruction, and aesthetic surgery, Dr. Jain brings a unique blend of precision and artistry to her procedures. Her personalized treatment plans and compassionate approach have made her a preferred choice among patients seeking advanced surgical care.

lomus Tumor Nail Bed Treatment

Let’s explore a case study outlining the successful treatment of a patient diagnosed with a glomus tumor of the thumb nail bed, detailing her journey from chronic pain to complete recovery under the care of Dr. Leena Jain.

 

  • Doctor’s name – Dr. Leena Jain
  • Clinic/ Hospital Name– Wockhardt Hospital, Mira Road/ Plastikos Clinic
  • Patient’s name– Confidential
  • Patient’s age– 30
  • Gender– Female
  • Patient Background– Banker

Symptoms

Left thumb nail, severe pain and sensitivity on exposure to cold
The patient, a 30-year-old female working as a banker, had been struggling with persistent pain and extreme sensitivity in her left thumb, primarily upon exposure to cold. The pain was localized under the thumbnail and significantly interfered with her daily tasks, including typing and handling paperwork, core aspects of her job.

Diagnostic Method

Clinical history and MRI
Dr. Leena Jain relied on a detailed patient history and MRI imaging to confirm the diagnosis.

Disease Diagnosed

Glomus tumor of the left thumb nail bed
The MRI scan revealed a glomus tumor nestled deep within the nail bed of the left thumb. Glomus tumors are rare, benign growths originating from the glomus body, a component involved in thermoregulation. When they develop under the nail bed, they can cause disproportionate pain in response to temperature changes or even light touch.

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Treatment Plan

Dr. Leena Jain developed a precise surgical approach tailored to the patient’s condition, considering the tumor’s depth and adherence to the underlying nail bed. The treatment involved:

Excision of the glomus tumor

The tumor had extended down to the bone and was tightly adhered to the overlying nail bed, requiring careful dissection to ensure complete removal.

Removal of affected nail bed portions

Due to tumor adherence, parts of the nail bed had to be removed to achieve a tumor-free margin.

Nail bed reconstruction

Dr. Jain performed a nail bed graft to restore normal nail growth. This delicate reconstruction ensured the regrowth of a healthy, aesthetically pleasing nail.
This personalized nail bed repair surgery addressed functional and visual outcomes, ensuring optimal results.

Post-Surgical Recovery and Guidelines

Recovery was closely monitored with the following guidelines:

Postoperative dressings

The patient underwent a couple of sterile dressings to protect the surgical site and promote healing.

Early mobilization

Normal thumb movements were encouraged shortly after surgery to prevent stiffness and ensure functional recovery.

Follow-ups

Regular follow-ups were scheduled to assess the nail bed graft integration and monitor for any signs of recurrence.
Dr. Jain emphasized that the main goals of the recovery phase were pain management, wound care, and functional restoration. Fortunately, the patient responded well, with no complications or signs of recurrence.

Outcome

The surgery yielded excellent results, both functionally and cosmetically. The pain disappeared completely, allowing the patient to return to work and resume normal activities without discomfort. The reconstructed nail bed supported healthy nail regrowth, with no deformities or scarring visible.

This outcome resolved the physical symptoms and improved the patient’s quality of life. For someone whose career depends on manual dexterity, the return of function was invaluable.

Long-Term Outlook

With the tumor entirely excised and no signs of recurrence during follow-ups, the long-term prognosis is very favorable. Dr. Jain ensured that the surgical approach minimized trauma to surrounding tissues and maximized the chances of a permanent cure.

Patients treated for glomus tumours of the fingers can expect excellent outcomes with the right surgical techniques, especially when treated early and by an experienced reconstructive surgeon.

Patient Feedback

The patient expressed immense satisfaction with the results. “The constant pain that I thought I’d have to live with is finally gone. I can type, write, and do everything without discomfort. Plus, my nail is growing back just like before. I’m so thankful to Dr. Leena Jain,” she shared during a follow-up.

Dr. Jain’s expertise in nail bed repair surgery and precise tumor excision helped this young professional regain pain-free hand function and an aesthetically normal nail, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and specialist care in treating glomus tumors.

Don’t ignore persistent nail or finger pain. Get expert care and take the first step toward pain-free, healthy nails. Book an appointment now!

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