Trigger finger
Trigger finger is a painful, catching sensation of the finger (or thumb) when making a fist or grasping objects. It is caused by inflammation of the tendon sheath (stenosing tenosynovitis) causes swelling around the tendon, which makes it difficult for tendon to slide normally through a fibrous tunnel in the hand (A1 pulley). It most commonly involves the ring finger but can involve other fingers and the thumb.
Non-surgical treatment: injection of steroid and local anaesthetic
Trigger finger release
Before Surgery
Dr McGonagle will inject local anaesthetic into the skin at the wrist and hand. This will be a little painful. You will be awake for the procedure.
A tourniquet will be applied to your arm to minimize bleeding. Dr McGonagle will make a small incision on your hand and release the A1 pulley, making it easier for the tendon to move.
Benefits: no further catching sensation when moving your finger.
Risks: pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, recurrence, nerve/tendon injury
Anaesthetic: local anaesthetic
Duration in hospital: 0.5 days
After Surgery
You will have a heavy bandage on your hand. You should remove this the following day. Start moving your fingers and hand immediately after the operation. Keep it elevated above the level of your heart.
Keep the wound clean and dry. The adhesive dressing is likely to fall off after a few days. Wash the wound gently with soap and water. A new dressing can be applied, but is not essential.
The stitches are dissolvable and will fall out around 2 weeks after surgery. You will have a wound check with the practice nurse 2 weeks after surgery.
Dr McGonagle will review you in clinic 6 weeks after surgery.