Trigger Finger Release

Trigger Finger Release is not a cosmetic procedure. It is a surgery to correct a locked joint in a finger or thumb, which is called a "trigger finger." This condition is usually a result of tendons that have formed lumps in the fingers and eventually cause snapping and clicking in the joints. The surgery to correct this condition should be covered by your insurance.

Who Can Benefit From Trigger Finger Release?

If you have a finger or thumb joint which has become locked in the bent position, you may be an excellent candidate for Trigger Finger Release. Cortisone injections are sometimes tried first, but if they fail to offer relief, surgery can actually cure the problem, although the condition sometimes returns over time.

What is the Procedure Like?

Trigger Finger Release is generally performed in the doctor's office under a local anesthetic to numb the hand along with a sedative to make you feel slightly drowsy. You will not be asleep unless you ask the doctor to use a general anesthetic. The incision is very small and made in the palm.

The surgeon cuts a small area of the affected tendon to create more space for movement. This restores normal motion to the joint of the finger or thumb. You will be able to go home a few hours after surgery, but you will need someone to drive you home and help you around the house for a few days.

What Can I Expect During Recovery?

Your will experience some numbness in your hand for a few hours after your surgery, and your hand will be heavily bandaged for about three days. You may experience some swelling and pain, but this can be managed by elevating the hand, applying ice packs, and taking prescription pain medication.

You may not be able to use the affected hand for a brief period of time after surgery, which means you will not be able to drive until the doctor says it is safe to do so. You can, however, return to work immediately if you feel comfortable. The recovery period is generally quite short for Trigger Finger Release surgery. The doctor may suggest that you undergo some physical therapy treatment to rehabilitate your hand and help you to restore proper movement.

What Are the Risks of Trigger Finger Release?

Trigger Finger Release is a very safe surgery that has extremely successful results. All surgeries have some element of risk, and nerve damage can result in rare cases, although it can usually be repaired in a subsequent surgery.