TRIGGER FINGER RELEASE

DO I NEED TRIGGER FINGER RELEASE?

Trigger finger release is very effective in relieving the pain and solving the clicking sensation in your finger. If you tried a steroid injection, but your symptoms returned surgical release is the next step.

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

• Preparing for your operation

  • You will have a pre-assessment to identify any correctable abnormalities. We advise that you stop smoking if applicable.

• Surgical procedure

  • ​This operation is done as day case surgery under local anaesthetic. An inch long incision is made over the entrance of the tendon sheet at the base of the finger and the inflamed and scarred tendon sheet is released. The wound is closed using dissolvable sutures.

• Recovery​

  • You should be able to go home soon after your operation and need to elevate your hand to prevent bleeding and help with pain relief. The bulky dressing can be removed after 24 hours and a small sticky dressing used to cover the wound. It takes 10-12 days for the would to heal. During this time you should not put your hand under water. Once the wound has healed you can resume your normal activities, although you need to be careful with heavy lifting for a few more weeks. Learn more.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

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• Your pain should gradually ease and the clicking cease. 

• You can return to light duties within a few days, but activities involving heavy lifting and grasping firmly should be avoided for 3-4 weeks.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS?

• Infection is rare and may only need a course of antibiotics. In severe cases a second operation is necessary to clear it.

• Significant bleeding or nerve injury is uncommon.

• Residual symptoms. You may experience some pain and the clicking may return. Very rarely a re-do operation may become necessary.