Trigger Finger Release

Your surgeon will recommend conservative treatment options to treat the trigger finger symptoms. 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. This places 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.

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. 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 an 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 of 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 of days.
• Once the bandage is removed, full movement of the finger is encouraged.
• Eating a healthy diet and not smoking will promote healing