Subungual Hematoma Trephination
Subungual hematomas, often known as nail or toenail blisters, develop when a digit is directly struck by a blunt force. Mechanisms include things like stubbling your toe, banging your finger in the car door, and dropping something heavy on your toe. Hemostasis development and bleeding beneath the nail follow.

Procedures Performed
Clinic Locations
Staff Employed
Five Star Reviews
Subungual Hematoma Trephination
Surgery Time:
Surgery Time:
Return to Work:
Return to Work:
Full Recovery:
Full Recovery:
Price Range:
Price Range:
About Subungual Hematoma Trephination Treatment

Subungual hematoma trephination is a medical procedure performed to release pressure and pain resulting from a subungual hematoma, a collection of blood trapped beneath the nail. Trauma or injury to the finger or nail is frequently the cause of this disorder.
Subungual Hematoma Trephination Prices
Subungual hematoma treatment at Signature Clinic starts from £400. This includes consultation, drainage procedure, and post-treatment care.
Subungual Hematoma Trephination in Detail
Benefits of Trephination for Subungual Hematoma
- Immediate pain relief
- Prevents nail loss and further complications
- Quick, minimally invasive procedure
- Performed under local anaesthetic
- Fast recovery and return to normal activities
Facts and Figures
- Procedure Time: 10 to 20 minutes
- Anaesthesia: Usually not required or done under local anaesthetic
- Recovery Time: 1 to 3 days
- Return to Activities: Same day or next day
- Results: Immediate relief from throbbing and pressure
The Procedure
- Assessment – The affected nail is examined to confirm a subungual hematoma.
- Trephination – A sterile instrument (such as a heated needle or fine drill) is used to create a small hole in the nail.
- Drainage – Trapped blood is released to reduce pain and pressure.
- Dressing – The area is cleaned and protected with a sterile dressing.
Subungual Hematoma Trephination Guide
- Rapid relief from nail trauma pain
- Safe, sterile, and effective method
- Suitable for recent injuries with visible bruising under the nail
- Minimal aftercare required
Meet the Team
Our Surgeons
have a question?
Subungual Hematoma Trephination FAQ
Is subungual hematoma trephination painful?
Most of the time, the process is not too painful. It can be done without anaesthesia in a lot of situations. However, a local anaesthetic may be administered to numb the area if the patient is in a great deal of discomfort.
Does the nail hole result in long-term harm?
No, the nail’s hole is only temporary. The opening is eventually pushed closer to the fingertip as the nail grows. Eventually, the nail will grow out completely.
After the procedure, is a dressing or bandage applied?
Yes, to protect the nail and encourage healing, a bandage or a sterile dressing will be applied.