Trigger Finger and Its Treatment
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Trigger finger is the most frequently performed surgical procedure in hand surgery. Trigger finger, also known as snapping finger, is most commonly a wear-related condition. When attempting to straighten the finger, in 2 out of 3 cases there is a sudden "jerk" of the thumb or finger. Much like a penknife, the affected finger snaps into the extended position.
Thanks to his many years of medical and surgical experience as a hand surgeon, you are in the best hands with Dr. Karl Schuhmann when it comes to trigger finger.
At a glance
- Symptoms: Sudden jerking or snapping when extending the finger, similar to a folding knife
- Cause: Thickening of the flexor tendon that glides only with difficulty under the ring ligament
- Stay: Outpatient surgery
- Methods: Splitting or removing the ring ligament and removing the thickened tendon sheath
- Note: Most frequently performed procedure in hand surgery; avoid cortisone injections where possible
How does a trigger finger develop?
A trigger finger most commonly develops as a result of thickening of a flexor tendon in the hand. The annular pulleys hold the tendons in position. When bending and straightening the finger, the tendon glides beneath the annular pulley. If the tendon becomes thickened in front of the pulley, it can only pass through with considerable force – causing the characteristic snapping or triggering sensation.
Treatment of Trigger Finger
During a day-case surgical procedure, the annular pulley is divided or removed, and the thickened tendon sheath is also excised. This resolves the problem. Cortisone injections should be avoided wherever possible, as they can lead to tendon rupture. Trigger finger is also known in clinical practice as stenosing tenosynovitis or tendovaginitis stenosans.
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Are you troubled by a trigger finger?
A thorough consultation is very important to us. Book a professional hand surgery consultation with Dr. Karl Schuhmann now. Our practice team is available Monday to Friday from 9:00 – 18:00.
Would you like to find out more about the treatment of trigger finger? Please feel free to book a consultation with me.
Hand Surgery Expert Dr. Schuhmann in the Press
- The 7 Most Important Answers – Trigger Finger | Snapping Finger
- Modern Wound Management in Hand Surgery
- Pain Relief – When Your Hands Hurt
Are you troubled by a trigger finger?
A thorough consultation is very important to us. Book a professional hand surgery consultation with Dr. Karl Schuhmann now. Our practice team is available Monday to Friday from 9:00 – 18:00.
Would you like to find out more about the treatment of trigger finger? Please feel free to book a consultation with me.
Dr. Schuhmann in der Presse
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