Trigger Finger Release

The large tendons that move the fingers may, over time, become worn and inflamed due to the repetitive motions they perform. In the hand, these tendons are kept in place by bands of tissue (pulleys) situated across the tendon. The inflammation and surface damage (delamination) to the tendon may cause sticking and catching under the pulley (trigger finger or trigger thumb). Mild cases may respond to an injection of local anaesthetic and steroid to help suppress the inflammation, but moderate to severe cases are best addressed surgically. Release of the pulley can be performed under local anaesthetic via a small incision in the palm.