What is Trigger Finger | Thumb Surgery?
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a painful condition in which one of your fingers or thumbs gets stuck in a bent position. In most cases, your finger will bend or straighten with a snap, hence the name.
What Does a Trigger Finger / Thumb Surgery Involve?
There are two main types of trigger finger or thumb surgery: open and percutaneous release.
Open Surgery
This option requires the surgeon to cut about a 1/2-inch incision in your palm, in line with the affected finger or thumb. Next, the surgeon will cut the tendon sheath that is impeding the movement of your finger. Once your finger can move freely, the surgeon will stitch up your hand and you’ll be able to return to your daily activities.
Percutaneous Release
This option can usually be done in the doctors rooms as it does not require any incisions. The surgeon will simply numb your palm and then insert a needle into the skin near the affected finger. The surgeon will then break the sheath with the needle.
The Ideal Candidate
During your initial consultation, the surgeon will decide whether or not you are a good candidate. Please note that you may not be a good candidate if:
- Your symptoms have improved with non-surgical treatment
- You have a severe illness or infection
How Much Does Trigger Finger / Thumb Surgery Cost?
Before any surgery can be scheduled a consultation must take place, here the surgeon will assess the patients’ needs and suggest the best procedure to achieve the required results.
Consultation Fee: R1000
(Estimated Price: email us)
The payment plan will be established between the patient and their medical aid provider.
Trigger Finger Recovery
You are likely to feel relief from your symptoms soon after your surgery, and the recovery time is generally very quick depending on the procedure chosen and the size of the incision.
Complications | Risks | Side Effects | Scars
If carried out by a medical professional, the side effects from Trigger Finger surgery should only last a few days.
Temporary Side Effects
It is common to experience side effects after a Trigger Finger surgery, these include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
Other Possible Side Effects
In some cases, the side effects are more severe. These include:
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- A sensitive scar
These risks will be fully disclosed and explained by the surgeon, if at any point post surgery a patient suffers from any serious side effects – please consult your surgeon immediately.
