Trigger digit release

Trigger fingers are a common problem, seen in patients of all ages – sometimes babies are even born with it! In adults, if the digit is actively triggering, and initial non-invasive treatments like anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections have failed, in-office percutaneous trigger digit release may be an option. The skin is cleaned, a local anesthetic agent is injected at the base of the digit, and then a needle is placed directly into the skin, using the sharp edge of the needle to release the portion of the tendon sheath that is creating the tightness. Resolution of the triggering can often be seen immediately. At times, there is pain following the procedure, perhaps more than would be anticipated following such a seemingly simple procedure. Applying ice, moving the finger, and elevating the hand will help to reduce this pain. If the percutaneous procedure fails to resolve the triggering, an open procedure in an operating room may be required. Dr. Yu will discuss with you the nature of your particular trigger finger to see if percutaneous trigger release is an option for you.

  • American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH)
  • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
  • The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS)