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Trigger finger release
trigger finger release · trigger finger surgery · stenosing tenosynovitis · finger tendon release
The doctor divides the tight ring of ligament at the base of the finger. The tendon stops catching, and the finger bends freely.
When a finger clicks, catches, or gets stuck bent, and injections and rest have not helped.
⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes 10 to 20 minutes; you go home the same day
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Numbing. Usually local: the finger and palm are numbed with a shot.
- Hand. Take rings off that hand in advance. No nail polish.
- Food. With local numbing, you can usually eat beforehand. Check with the clinic.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your ID
- A list of your medicines
How it goes
- You lie or sit down, and your hand rests on a table
- The skin is cleaned, and a numbing shot is given
- The doctor makes a small cut at the base of the finger, or works through a needle puncture
- The tight ligament is divided
- You are asked to bend the finger to check that the click is gone
- Stitches and a bandage are applied
What you'll feel
- The numbing shot burns for a few seconds
- During the procedure: pressure and touch
- Afterward, the palm aches for 1 to 3 days
Afterwards
- You can usually bend the finger right away. It reduces stiffness
- Keep your hand raised for the first days
- Keep the bandage dry until your doctor says it is OK
- Stitches usually come out after 10 to 14 days
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Redness, swelling, pus from the wound, or a fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
- The finger goes numb, cold, or pale
Common questions
Can it start clicking again?
It is rare. If the click comes back, see your doctor.
Can I use my hand right away?
For light tasks, usually yes. Heavy lifting and a strong grip later, as your doctor advises.