Trigger finger causes pain, stiffness, and locking in your fingers. Trigger finger release surgery is a quick, effective solution that restores smooth movement, relieving discomfort and improving hand function.
What is Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger, also called stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that affects the tendons in the fingers or thumb. It causes stiffness, pain, and a sensation of locking or catching when bending or straightening the affected finger. This occurs when the tendon sheath becomes inflamed or thickened, making it difficult for the tendon to glide smoothly.
In severe cases, the finger may become stuck in a bent position. The condition commonly affects the thumb, ring, or middle finger and can occur in one or multiple fingers.
What Causes Trigger Finger?
Trigger finger occurs when the tendon sheath in the finger becomes irritated or inflamed. This inflammation narrows the space through which the tendon moves, making it difficult for the finger to bend and straighten smoothly.
Common causes and risk factors include:
Repetitive hand movements: Frequent gripping or grasping motions can strain the tendons.
Medical conditions: Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout increase the risk.
Prolonged pressure: Continuous use of tools or activities that put pressure on the palm.
Gender and age: More common in women and individuals over 40.
Previous hand injuries: Trauma to the hand can contribute to tendon irritation.
How does the tendon become affected?
The tendon becomes affected when the sheath surrounding it becomes inflamed or thickened. This limits the tendon's ability to glide smoothly, causing irritation and further swelling. Over time, a nodule may form on the tendon, making movement even more difficult.
As the tendon tries to move through the narrowed sheath, it may catch or lock. This leads to the characteristic snapping sensation of trigger finger. In severe cases, the finger may become stuck in a bent position and require manual force to straighten.
Is rheumatoid arthritis a common cause?
Yes, rheumatoid arthritis is a common cause of trigger finger. This condition leads to chronic inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues, including the tendon sheaths. Over time, the inflammation can cause thickening and narrowing of the sheath, making tendon movement difficult. People with rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of developing trigger finger due to ongoing joint and tendon damage.
What role does the flexor tendon play?
The flexor tendon plays a key role in bending the fingers and thumb. It connects the muscles in the forearm to the bones in the fingers, allowing smooth movement. The tendon runs through a protective sheath, which helps keep it in place and ensures flexibility.
In trigger finger, the sheath becomes inflamed or thickened, restricting the tendon's movement. This causes difficulty in bending and straightening the finger, leading to pain, stiffness, and the characteristic catching or locking sensation.
When is Trigger Finger Release Surgery Necessary?
Trigger finger release surgery is necessary when symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatments. If pain, stiffness, and locking interfere with daily activities, surgery may be the best option.
Doctors may recommend surgery in the following cases:
Severe pain: Ongoing discomfort that does not improve with rest, splinting, or medications.
Limited movement: Difficulty bending or straightening the finger, affecting hand function.
Persistent locking: The finger frequently gets stuck in a bent position.
Failure of other treatments: Corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or other conservative methods have not provided relief.
Multiple affected fingers: Surgery may be needed if more than one finger is involved and symptoms are worsening.
What are the symptoms of trigger finger?
Trigger finger symptoms develop gradually and may worsen over time. They often start with mild discomfort and progress to more noticeable movement restrictions.
Finger stiffness: Especially in the morning or after inactivity.
Clicking or popping sensation: When bending or straightening the affected finger.
Pain or tenderness: At the base of the finger or thumb.
Finger locking: The finger may temporarily get stuck in a bent position before suddenly straightening.
Permanent bending: In severe cases, the finger remains stuck and requires manual force to extend.
What Does the Surgical Procedure Involve?
Trigger finger release surgery is a minor procedure that relieves tendon restriction by opening the narrowed sheath. It is typically performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day.
Steps of the Procedure
1. Anesthesia: The surgeon injects local anesthesia into the affected finger or palm to numb the area.
2. Incision or Needle Release:
Open Surgery: The surgeon makes a small incision in the palm near the base of the affected finger.
Percutaneous Release: A needle is inserted through the skin to cut the tightened sheath without an incision.
3. Releasing the Tendon: The surgeon carefully cuts the thickened tendon sheath, creating more space for the flexor tendon to move freely. This relieves the locking and pain.
4. Closing the Incision (if applicable): In open surgery, the incision is closed with stitches and covered with a bandage. In percutaneous release, no stitches are needed.
5. Recovery and Dressing: The hand is wrapped in a light bandage. The patient is advised to move the finger gently to prevent stiffness.
The entire procedure usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. Most patients regain normal finger movement soon after surgery, with full recovery taking a few weeks.
How is the A1 pulley released?
The A1 pulley is released by cutting the thickened tissue that restricts the flexor tendon's movement. This can be done through open surgery or percutaneous release.
Methods of A1 Pulley Release
Open Surgery: The surgeon makes a small incision in the palm and directly cuts the A1 pulley to free the tendon.
Percutaneous Release: A needle or blade is inserted through the skin to cut the A1 pulley without an incision.
Once released, the tendon can glide smoothly, relieving pain and restoring movement.
Assoc. Prof. Ahmet Hamdi Sakarya, a leading Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon with Care in Turkey, specializes in innovative aesthetic solutions.
What is percutaneous trigger finger release?
Percutaneous trigger finger release is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat trigger finger without making an open incision. Instead of cutting the skin, the surgeon uses a needle or a small blade to release the A1 pulley through the skin. This allows the flexor tendon to move freely, eliminating the locking and pain.
Steps of the Procedure
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is injected into the affected finger or palm to numb the area.
Needle or Blade Insertion: The surgeon inserts a fine needle or a small blade through the skin at the base of the affected finger.
Releasing the A1 Pulley: The surgeon carefully moves the needle or blade back and forth to cut the thickened A1 pulley without damaging nearby structures.
Checking Finger Movement: The surgeon moves the finger to confirm smooth tendon movement.
Bandaging: A small bandage is applied. No stitches are needed.
Advantages of Percutaneous Release
No open incision or stitches.
Faster recovery and minimal scarring.
Can be performed in an outpatient setting.
Most patients experience immediate improvement, with full recovery in a few weeks.
Recovery from Trigger Finger Release Surgery
Recovering from trigger finger release surgery is usually quick, with most patients regaining normal finger movement within a few weeks. Proper care and rehabilitation help ensure a smooth recovery.
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
Wound Care:
If an open incision was made, the area is covered with a light bandage.
Stitches (if used) are typically removed after 10-14 days.
Keep the wound clean and dry for at least 24-48 hours to prevent infection.
Pain Management:
Mild pain and swelling are common after surgery.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help.
Apply an ice pack for 10-15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
Finger Movement:
Begin gentle movement soon after surgery to prevent stiffness.
Light bending and straightening exercises improve flexibility.
Avoid forceful gripping or heavy lifting for at least 2-4 weeks.
Rehabilitation and Strengthening
Hand Therapy:
Some patients may need physical therapy for strength and flexibility.
Therapists may recommend massage, stretching, or strengthening exercises.
Returning to Activities:
Light activities can resume within a few days.
Most people return to work within 1-2 weeks; jobs requiring heavy hand use may need 4-6 weeks.
Full recovery usually takes 4-6 weeks, depending on the individual.
Are There Non-Surgical Treatments for Trigger Finger?
Yes, several non-surgical treatments can help relieve trigger finger symptoms, especially in mild to moderate cases. These treatments aim to reduce inflammation, improve tendon movement, and prevent the finger from locking.
Common Non-Surgical Treatments
Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid repetitive gripping or prolonged pressure on the affected hand.
Splinting: Wearing a splint keeps the finger straight, preventing locking and allowing the tendon to rest.
Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching improves flexibility and prevents stiffness.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen relieve pain and inflammation.
Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath reduce inflammation and improve movement.
If symptoms persist despite these treatments, surgery may be necessary for lasting relief.
Risks & Complications
Trigger finger release surgery is generally safe, but like any procedure, it carries some risks. Most complications are rare and minor, but some may require further treatment.
Possible Risks and Complications
Infection: Redness, swelling, or pus at the incision site may indicate infection; antibiotics treat mild cases.
Bleeding or Bruising: Usually minor and resolves on its own.
Stiffness or Weakness: Temporary, improving with movement and therapy.
Scar Sensitivity: Tenderness around the scar generally fades over time.
Nerve Damage: Rarely, small nerves may be affected, causing numbness or tingling.
Incomplete Relief: Some patients may have lingering symptoms or need further treatment.
Tendon Bowstringing: Very rarely, excessive sheath release can cause abnormal tendon movement.
Most patients recover without complications and regain full hand function within a few weeks. Proper post-surgical care reduces risks.
Assoc. Prof. Ahmet Hamdi Sakarya, a leading Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon with Care in Turkey, specializes in innovative aesthetic solutions.
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