Trigger Finger Surgery and Treatment

‍Understanding Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition that causes your finger or thumb to get stuck in a bent position, accompanied by pain and stiffness. When the thumb is affected, it's referred to as trigger thumb. This condition hampers the normal bending and straightening of your fingers, limiting their movement.

At TMSC, our board-certified plastic surgeons are experts in treating trigger finger and trigger thumb safely and effectively.

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Symptoms of Trigger Finger

If you are experiencing trigger finger or trigger thumb, you may notice the following symptoms, which typically develop gradually:

• Persistent soreness at the base of a finger or thumb
• A noticeable lump or bump at the base of a finger
• Tenderness at the base of a finger
• Clicking or snapping sound with finger movement
• Finger stiffness
• Difficulty fully bending the finger
• Advanced symptoms include:some text
  • Finger locking in a bent position, then suddenly popping straight
  • Finger locking in a bent position and being unable to straighten it

These symptoms are often more pronounced after prolonged hand use or periods of inactivity, such as in the morning.

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Causes of Trigger Finger

The exact cause of trigger finger is not well understood, but several factors are associated with its development:

• Repetitive and forceful hand activities
• Medical conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis

Your hands contain tendons that, along with bones and muscles, facilitate finger movement. These tendons slide through a tissue tunnel known as a sheath. When the tendons become irritated and inflamed, movement through the sheath becomes difficult, leading to trigger finger. This restricted movement causes further inflammation, exacerbating the condition.

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Benefits of Early Treatment

Seeking early treatment for trigger finger is crucial for preventing the condition from worsening. Early intervention can:

• Reduce pain and inflammation quickly
• Prevent the progression to more severe symptoms
• Improve finger function and flexibility
• Decrease the likelihood of needing surgery
• Enhance overall hand health and performance

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Treatment Options for Trigger Finger

At TMSC, we offer specialized surgical treatment for trigger finger. When non-surgical treatments, such as steroid injections, fail, surgery becomes the next option. The surgical procedure, known as "tenolysis" or "trigger finger release," aims to release the A1 pulley that obstructs tendon movement, allowing the tendon to glide smoothly through the sheath. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area during the procedure.

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Trigger Finger Surgery Details

• Surgery Cost: The cost of trigger finger surgery can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon's experience and the complexity of the case. At TMSC, we provide a detailed cost estimate during your consultation.
• Recovery Time: Recovery time after trigger finger surgery typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the individual. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days.
• Anesthesia: Trigger finger surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, so you will not be put to sleep for the procedure. This minimizes risks and allows for a quicker recovery.
• Surgery Name: The medical term for trigger finger surgery is "tenolysis" or "trigger finger release."
• Post-Surgery Issues: While complications are rare, some patients may experience stiffness, infection, or recurrence of symptoms. Our surgeons take every precaution to minimize these risks.
• Success Rate: The success rate of trigger finger surgery is high, with most patients experiencing significant relief from symptoms and improved finger movement.

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FAQs

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Is trigger finger caused by injury?

While trigger finger can be exacerbated by repetitive hand use, it is not typically caused by a single injury. Instead, it develops over time due to tendon inflammation.

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Can trigger finger heal on its own? 

In some mild cases, rest and non-surgical treatments may alleviate symptoms. However, severe or persistent cases often require medical intervention.

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Is surgery the only treatment for trigger finger?

No, non-surgical treatments like splinting, steroid injections, and physical therapy are often the first line of treatment. Surgery is considered when these methods fail.

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Will I be awake during trigger finger surgery?

Yes, most trigger finger surgeries are performed under local anesthesia, so you will be awake but the area being treated will be numb.

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How long will it take to recover from trigger finger surgery?

Recovery time varies, but most patients can resume light activities within a few days. Full recovery can take a few weeks to a few months.

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Are there risks associated with trigger finger surgery?

While rare, potential risks include infection, stiffness, and recurrence of symptoms. Our experienced surgeons take every precaution to minimize these risks.

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Why Choose TMSC?

• Board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience
• State-of-the-art facilities in Toronto, Vaughan, and Oakville
• Personalized care and attention to patient needs
• Comprehensive treatment options for trigger finger and other conditions

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Insurance Coverage

Treatment for trigger finger is covered by OHIP, ensuring accessible and affordable care for our patients.

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Contact Us

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit our clinics in Toronto, Vaughan, and Oakville. We are committed to providing top-quality care for all our patients.

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