What is Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)?

Trigger Finger is a common cause of pain and loss of function in the fingers and hand, where the tendon sheaths of the flexors of the fingers are affected. This condition occurs more often in women, in whom the thumb is often affected, while otherwise the most commonly affected are III. and IV finger. In the literature, it is also called Stenosing Tenosynovitis.

How is Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis) diagnosed and treated?

The diagnosis is usually made on the basis of a clinical examination, and no additional treatment is normally required. In most cases, it is possible to reproduce the "clicking" of the finger, which is the main symptom of the disease. In some, although rare cases, additional diagnostic processing in the form of ultrasound or MRI of the hand is required, if the clinical findings are not clear.

Treatment is necessary to restore the function of the finger and the ability to work with the hand, and it can be conservative and surgical as the most common form of treatment. The decision on how to treat this condition is made by a specialist in agreement with the patient. At the same time, with conservative (non-operative) treatment, there is often a recurrence of complaints.

The younger and middle-aged population is most often affected, where the treatment is aimed at returning to work activities and reducing the time spent on sick leave.

The operation is performed under local anesthesia and with the use of a blood line. A surgical incision is made in the area of the painful area and the pulley that tightens the tendon is removed. Moving the operated finger on the same day is advised. After the surgical procedure, the patient is discharged to home treatment on the same day.

Early mobilization of the fingers is recommended, and with the disappearance of symptoms, the result is visible immediately. Recovery can take up to a month.

Despite the measures taken, complications are possible, although rare. During the first examination, the doctor will familiarize you with all possible complications and precautions.