Trigger Finger Release Surgery

The ability to bend the fingers is governed by supportive tendons that connect muscles to the bones of the fingers. The tendons run along the length of the bone and are kept in place at intervals by tunnels of ligaments called pulleys. When the fingers bend, or are straightened, a slippery coating called tenosynovium helps the tendons smoothly glide through the ligaments with reduced friction.

Inflammation in the tenosynovium leads to a condition called trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis or flexor tendonitis, where one of the fingers or thumb of the hand is caught in a bent position. The affected digit may straighten with a quick snap, like pulling and releasing the trigger on a gun, hence the name trigger finger.

Treatment Options for Trigger Finger

Treatment options will vary depending on the severity of the condition.

Conservative treatment options may include the following:

Treating any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the problem, such as diabetes or arthritis
Immobilization: The finger is immobilized in an extended position with a splint for 4-6 weeks. Thisplaces the finger in a neutral position enabling the joint to rest.
Rest the hand for 2-4 weeks or more by avoiding repetitive gripping actions. Avoid activities that tend to bring on the symptoms.
Strengthening and stretching exercises with the affected finger may be suggested.
Occupational therapy may be recommended for massage, heat, ice and exercises to improve the finger.
Ice over the affected finger may help symptoms. Apply ice over a towel for
5-15 min, 3-4 x daily.
Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's) may help to relieve pain and inflammation.
Steroid injections into the affected finger may help reduce the inflammation in the finger.

Indications for Trigger Finger Release Surgery

If conservative treatment options fail to resolve the condition and symptoms persist for 6 months or more and your quality of life is adversely affected, your surgeon may recommend you undergo a percutaneous trigger finger release surgical procedure to release the tendon.

Trigger Finger Release Procedure

This surgery is usually performed in an operating room under local or regional anesthesia on an outpatient basis as day surgery. Your surgeon makes one small incision, about inch long, to the affected finger area. The surgeon then releases the tight portion of the flexor tendon sheath. The incision is then closed with a couple sutures and covered with a sterile dressing.

After surgery your surgeon will give you guidelines to follow. Common postoperative guidelines include:

Keep the surgical incision clean and dry. Cover the area with plastic wrap when bathing or showering.
Ice packs to the surgical area may be used to reduce pain and swelling.
The bandage is usually removed after a couple days.
Once the bandage is removed, full movement of the finger is encouraged.
Eating a healthy diet and not smoking will promote healing

Risks and Complications of Trigger Finger Release

As with any major surgery there are potential risks involved. The decision to proceed with the surgery is made because the advantages of surgery outweigh the potential disadvantages. It is important that you are informed of these risks before the surgery takes place.

Complications can be medical (general) or specific to hand surgery. Medical complications include those of the anesthetic and your general well being. Almost any medical condition can occur, so this list is not complete.

Allergic reaction to medications
Blood loss requiring transfusion with its low risk of disease transmission
Heart attack, strokes, kidney failure, pneumonia, bladder infections
Complications from nerve blocks such as infection or nerve damage
Serious medical problems can lead to ongoing health concerns, prolonged hospitalization, or rarely death

The majority of patients suffer no complications following trigger finger surgery; however, complications can occur and include:

Infection
Nerve damage causing weakness, paralysis, or loss of feeling in the hand area
Stiffness to the finger
Trigger finger returns if sheath not adequately released

Risk factors that can negatively affect adequate healing after surgery include:

Poor nutrition
Smoking
Alcoholism
Chronic illness
Steroid use
Age (over 60)