Lacuna method
for fungal nails

What is the Lacuna Method?

The Lacuna method is a fungal nail treatment where we drill very small ‘micro’ holes through the nail plate to allow the penetration of an antifungal solution through to the site of the infection at the nail bed.

How does it work?

Often the active part of the fungal nail infection is under the nail plate on the nail bed (the skin beneath the nail) and not just the nail itself. This makes it difficult to treat the infection with over-the-counter lacquers as the nail plate acts as a barrier.

By drilling micro holes through the nail plate it allows the antifungal solution to penetrate through the nail and reach the nail bed.  This treats the active site of the fungal infection at the nail bed and over time the damaged discoloured nail grows out. As with any antifungal treatment, this takes typically 6 -18 months, depending on how fast your nails grow.

Who can benefit from the Lacuna Method?

People with a mild-moderate fungal nail infections- 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 - usually either white/yellow/brown

• Brittle nail texture

• Build-up of debris under the nail

• White patches on the nail plate

• Lifting of the nail

What does the Lacuna Method involve?

Step 1

Assessment: A thorough examination of the nails. We will provide advice on treatment and prevention.

Step 2

Photos will be taken of the nails affected so progress can be monitored.

Step 3

The nail is cleaned and prepared.

Step 4

Micro holes are drilled into the nail plate around the infected portion of nail. This may be slightly uncomfortable, comparable to a hair being plucked.

Step 5

The nail will be reviewed around 6-8 weeks later, further holes are drilled if necessary. This will continue until the infection has cleared.