Trigger finger

Trigger finger (stenosing tendovaginitis) is a condition affecting the tendons of finger flexors and their pulleys forming a sheath through which the tendons pass.

The trigger finger develops at the moment when the tendon sheath becomes narrowed and cannot glide smoothly through the tendon pulley. When fingers are moving, forced passing of the tendon through the narrowed area may cause pain, catching, popping, or locking sensation and impairs finger movement. An increased friction at the thickened site causes a local inflammatory reaction of the tendon and pulley sheath accompanied by swelling and tumefaction. There is thus a vicious circle that can result in a situation where the finger can no longer be bent or stretched.

The trigger finger treatment aims at restoring a smooth passage of the tendon through the pulley. Anti-inflammatory medicines, namely tablets, or injections applied directly to the tendon, are used to reduce the tendon swelling. Temporary immobilisation (fixation) of the affected finger with a splint accelerates inflammation healing and reduces swelling in the affected area. In most cases, however, surgical treatment is indicated. Course of the procedure A short incision is made in the palm of the hand and the tendon pulley is cut to stop preventing free movement of the thickened tendon. This enables the client to move their finger freely immediately after the operation.

The operation is performed as outpatient under local anaesthesia and takes approximately 15 minutes. The patient goes home after the procedure.

In the early postoperative period, active exercising with the operated finger is required to prevent union between tendons and the surrounding area. Sutures are removed in two weeks. It is possible to apply full load to the hand approximately three weeks after surgery.

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