A procedure to relieve symptoms of trigger finger by releasing the affected tendon sheath.
Through a small incision at the base of the affected finger, the tight pulley causing the tendon to catch is released, allowing it to glide freely again. The procedure typically takes fifteen to thirty minutes and is usually done under local anaesthetic as day surgery.
Assessment usually confirms the diagnosis clinically. Because it is typically done under local anaesthetic, preparation is generally straightforward, though arranging transport home is recommended.
A light dressing is worn for a few days. Most people can use the hand for light activities almost immediately, with the surgical site settling over the following one to two weeks.
Gentle finger movement is encouraged from soon after surgery to prevent stiffness. Formal hand therapy is not usually needed, though it can help if stiffness or discomfort persists longer than expected.
Risks include infection, and, rarely, injury to the small nerves that run close to the pulley being released, which can cause temporary numbness. Recurrence of triggering after a properly performed release is uncommon.
The aim is to eliminate the catching, clicking or locking of the finger. Most patients experience complete or near-complete resolution of symptoms, generally the most reliable outcome among common hand procedures.
Trigger finger release widens the narrowed pulley that causes a finger to catch or lock, and is a short, generally very reliable day surgery procedure. Most patients experience complete resolution of the catching and locking.
