Anatomy and physiology of the perionychium.

It is essential that practitioners, especially surgeons, understand the anatomy and physiology of the tissues they are treating. It is especially important in the nail bed because most practitioners know little about the specific anatomy and physiology of the nail bed. Only if such information is known and considered can new techniques and research in the anatomy, physiology, and care of the nail bed be used. In addition to the individual parts of the nail bed, developmental physiology, embryology, vasculature, lymphatics, and nerve supply are discussed.