What is trigger thumb surgery

What is the best treatment for trigger thumb?

The quickest and most effective treatment is a local cortisone injection into the tendon sheath around the affected tendon. Most patients will respond well to the steroid injection (corticosteroid injection such as kenalog, depomedrol, and others). Trigger finger can recur after a period of normal function.

How successful is trigger thumb surgery?

Surgical release of a trigger digit has a reported success rate of between 60%5) and 97%. Unfortunately, surgery is associated with complications such as infection, nerve injury, tendon laceration, long-standing pain, contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint and recurrence.

What is the recovery time for trigger thumb surgery?

What is the recovery time? Patients are able to use the finger immediately following surgery. Recovery is complete within a few weeks, but it takes up to six months for all swelling and stiffness to go away.

How painful is trigger thumb surgery?

Recovery and aftercare

Surgery may initially cause some pain or soreness. Doctors may recommend over-the-counter painkillers for relief. Immediately after surgery, a person should be able to move their finger or thumb. Be gentle with movements at first; full movement can be expected to return in 1 to 2 weeks.

Will trigger thumb go away on its own?

The tendon cannot move as freely in the narrowed area and can become stuck. Trigger finger can recur but the condition generally corrects itself after a short while. More severe cases may become locked in the bent position and require surgery to correct it.

How did I get trigger thumb?

Trigger fingers are more common with certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout and diabetes. Repeated and strong gripping may lead to the condition. In most cases, the cause of the trigger finger is not known.

Is heat or ice better for trigger thumb?

Heat or ice: Heat or ice can be applied to reduce swelling. Placing your hand in warm water several times throughout the day can also relax the tendons and muscles in your fingers and hand. Exercise: Gentle exercises may help decrease stiffness and improve range of motion.

Why does my thumb click?

While a tendon usually glides easily through its sheath due to a lubricating membrane called synovium, an inflamed and swollen or nodular tendon can prevent this motion. As a result, moving the finger or thumb may pull the inflamed portion through a contracted tendon sheath, making it snap or pop.

Should trigger thumb be splinted?

To limit the range of motion and allow the thumb to rest, splint the thumb with an Oval-8 Finger Splint. This lightweight, comfortable splint may be worn prior to and following injections or surgery. The patient may also continue to wear the splint after symptoms resolve to prevent re-occurrence.

Are you awake during trigger finger surgery?

Your doctor will make a cut (incision) in the tissue over the tendon that helps bend your finger. This will allow the tendon to move freely without pain. This surgery will probably be done while you are awake. The doctor will give you a shot (injection) to numb your hand and prevent pain.

What does trigger thumb look like?

Signs and symptoms of trigger finger may progress from mild to severe and include: Finger stiffness, particularly in the morning. A popping or clicking sensation as you move your finger. Tenderness or a bump (nodule) in the palm at the base of the affected finger.