Trigger Finger Release
What is a trigger finger release?
Trigger finger is a condition that causes a finger or thumb to be stuck in a curled position. Symptoms can include finger stiffness, the finger catching or locking in a bent position, popping or clicking sensations in the finger with movement, and the inability to straighten the finger. A trigger finger release procedure may be recommended if the patient has had no success with nonsurgical treatment options such as resting the hand, wearing a splint, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. Patients whose movements have been restricted by the condition, experience pain in the hand or forearm, are unable to complete daily tasks due to the condition, and who have significantly impacted mobility are good candidates for the procedure. Trigger finger release surgery can help the patient regain mobility in the affected finger or thumb. The procedure creates more space for the flexor tendon to move, allowing the finger or thumb to bend and flex. The outcome results in the patient regaining the ability to straighten and bend the finger without pain.
What is a trigger finger release procedure like?
The patient will be required to fast before surgery and should follow all of their doctor’s instructions. If the patient undergoes open surgery, it will likely be conducted as an outpatient procedure. They will be given a mild sedative, a local anesthetic will be injected into the hand, and a half-inch incision will be made in the palm in line with the affected finger or thumb. The surgeon will then cut the tendon sheath. Once they determine that the tendon’s motion in the tendon sheath is smooth, the incision will be closed. The patient will likely need to wear a bandage for up to five days after the procedure and keep their wound dry. The patient may ice their finger to ease any pain. The patient may also be recommended to a hand therapist or certain exercises and should avoid sports for up to three weeks after surgery.
Do you have an injury that could benefit from this surgical technique? Contact the specialists at Mobility Bone & Joint Institute to learn more about treatment options.
