Abstract
Whatever the origin and the nature of the trauma, behind every request for ungual prostheses there is always the question of how realistic the effect on others will be. Our publications in 1978, 1988 and 1999 and 30 years of experience in this field have consequently led to a comparative study on the evolution of the quality, fixation and indications of our prostheses. The replacement nail is still a difficult issue as sometimes it is simply a matter for the 'nail boutiques', but can even involve surgery in the more complex cases. Prostheses replicate the volume and shape of the finger. Treating a nail is an intricate task but an essential one for the aesthetic and functional comfort of the patient. ( J Dermatol Treat (2001) 12: 41-46)