Trigger finger (also known as stenosing tenosynovitis) is a painful condition of the finger or thumb caused by either a narrowing of the tunnel that supports the tendon which flexes the finger or increased inflammation of the tendon. The first symptom is usually soreness at the base of the finger. Painful clicking or snapping often occurs and some notice the finger getting locked in position and unable to straighten.
Trigger finger is more common in people with certain medical conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions can cause increased swelling around the tendon. People who perform repetitive activity or forceful gripping are also more susceptible. However, in the majority of cases there is no specific cause identified.
Non-surgical treatment options include rest, a splint, anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs), and steroid injections. The goal is to eliminate the inflammation and allow for painless movement of the finger or thumb. If these non-surgical treatments do not work the Fitzmaurice Care Team will then discuss surgery options with you.
At the Fitzmaurice Institute Dr. Michael Fitzmaurice has developed a patent-pending system which allows treatment for trigger finger or trigger thumb. The EndoTech® Endoscopic Trigger Finger Release is done through a minimal incision using a local anesthetic. Patients notice a significant improvement in pain by the first follow-up visit within 2 weeks. Patients can begin using the finger or thumb immediately for light activity and return to normal activity within 1 week. This is much quicker than traditional open procedures. The minimal incision allows much faster healing with minimal scar tissue. This specialized instrumentation allows complete visualization of the tendon and digital nerve, which is commonly found in this region. The thickened tissue over the tendon is safely divided, allowing pain-free movement of the tendon while protecting the nerve from injury. The EndoTech® endoscopic trigger finger release provides the safest and most effective minimally invasive treatment option for trigger finger.
Studies have shown that this remarkable visualization significantly decreases surgical risks, with zero complications to date in over 4000 procedures performed. EndoTech® results in the least amount of pain and fastest recovery compared to other surgical techniques. This allows for a much higher success rate and a greater overall patient outcome.