What is Trigger Finger Surgery?

Trigger finger is caused when the flexor tendon swells. Most times it can be treated with a steroid injection to decrease the swelling, but it only works to relieve the condition temporarily in about half of the cases. If the tendon swells again, surgery may be required to correct the problem permanently.

What is it?

Trigger finger surgery is the surgical procedure used to release a tendon that is catching in a finger or thumb.

How is it done?

The procedure is done using a regional nerve block or local anesthetic. The doctor will make a small incision, less than 2 cm, in the skin. Once the incision is made, he will release the portion of the flexor tendon sheath that is tight.

What to expect after the procedure?

After the procedure, the doctor will place a bandage over the incision. The bandage will stay on for a few days before being removed. Once it is removed, use of the finger can begin again. The doctor will encourage you to use the finger just as you were before the procedure, so that scars will not form.

What is the recovery expectations?

Recovery is expected to be a full one. The procedure has a very high success rate.

What are possible complications?

Possible complications can include recurrence if the tendon is not released properly, infection, nerve damage and stiffness of the finger. The possibilities of complications are very small.