Clearanail
Clearanail is an intelligent nail drill which drills through the nail and retracts the drill bit as soon as it reaches the nail bed. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of nails that is widespread and difficult to treat because of the impermeable nature of human nails. Mechanical fenestration of the nail using Clearanail significantly reduces the risk of manually drilling into the flesh below the nail. In a published medical paper in 2019 it was found this method improved drug delivery 3-4 fold after 42 days.
Who will benefit from Clearanail
People who are suffering with fungal nail infections and have tried other over the counter products or medication from their GP that have failed to work may benefit from Clearanail. Your podiatrist will advise if they believe Clearanail would be beneficial to you within a routine appointment. The podiatrist will take into account an array of information such as how its affecting you, how severe the infection is, whether the full nails or partial nails are affected and your medication. They will explain the packages and procedure involved and provide you with literature to take away and read. If after this appointment you decide to go ahead with Clearanail we will book the appointment for you with a trained podiatrist and ensure the intelligent Clearanail drill is available. Please note the treatment can only be provided at the Chapel Allerton Clinic.
What is included in the Clearanail package?
Appointment 1 Includes the following
Please note the qty of each product varies based on the number of nails affected
1. Holes drilled in all infected areas of each nail
2. Dermatophyte test using the dust from the drill (more accurate than clippings)
3. Antibacterial Detergent (to take home)
4. Shoe & Sock Spray (to take home)
5. Antifungal Cream based on test result (to take home)
6. Nail Spray based on test result (to take home)
Appointment 2 Includes the following (6-8 weeks)
1. Holes drilled in new affected nails with infection if required
2. Nail Spray based on test result (to take home)
Does Clearanail treatment work on all fungal infections?
There are lots of factors to consider and every patient is different therefore Clearanail may not always be recommended as being appropriate for you.
Is Clearanail Treatment Successful?
There is no 100% guarantee with any treatment but the podiatrist will discuss all appropriate options and only recommend Clearanail if they believe there is a good chance of success.
What is the cost for the Treatment
Prices range based on the affected area and the time taken to drill all the holes.
Prices start at £273 for 1-3 nails and £365 maximum for 6 or more nails
The price includes both appointments, the dermatophyte test and all products to take home.
Clearanail Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. How do I get assessed to see if I am suitable?
A. Please book a "Routine Appointment" to be seen by a podiatrist. During this appointment the podiatrist will take a full medical history, and assess your suitability for treatment they may also provide other treatment during this appointment such as thinning the fungal nails or dealing with other issues such as hard skin and cutting your nails. If Clearanail is suitable, a treatment plan will be discussed and agreed with you and another booking for Clearanail will be made for you.
Q. What happens if I'm told I'm NOT suitable for Clearanail?
A. If you are not suitable the podiatrist will use the remaining appointment time to provide normal routine treatment and discuss other treatment options they believe would be beneficial.
Q. How much does the Routine appointment cost?
A. For new patients the "Routine appointment" costs £50 and for existing patients this is reduced to £45.
Q. How much does Clearanail cost?
A. The price for 1-3 nails £273, 4-6 nails £346, more than 6 nails £365. This includes 2 appointments and the treatment products provided to be used at home.
Q. Is a deposit required to book?
A. Yes, a £50 non refundable deposit will be required to book the appointment, the full balance will be due at the first appointment.
Q. I cannot find the Clearanail package online to book?
A. Only the a routine appointment can be booked online, if at that appointment the podiatrist confirms that you are suitable for clearanail treatment then they will book you into an appointment with the required length of time.
Q. Is this suitable for everyone?
A. Clearanail treatment is not suitable for the following:
- Under 18 years old
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Q. How many holes are required?
A. This is dependent on the area of nail affected. Holes are only drilled in areas where the nail is infected. Each hole takes approximately 10 secs to drill.
Q. Does it hurt?
A. Most people do not experience any pain, some may experience a slight discomfort/ pricking sensation.
Q. Will the holes be visible?
A. Yes, they can be seen if you look very closely, although they are very small 0.4mm in diameter.
Q. Can I wear nail varnish over my nails after the treatment?
A. No, any varnish or lacquer on the nails will block the holes preventing the treatment from reaching the nail bed.
Q. How long will it take for the holes to disappear?
A. The holes will stay within the nail until the nail grows out. It can take 12 to 18 months for an adult big toenail to fully grow.
