Trigger finger surgery at OpenMed Warsaw
Trigger finger, also known as snapping or jumping finger (Latin: trigger finger), is a hand condition associated with disturbance of the normal sliding of the flexor tendon in its sheath. The characteristic symptom is the finger snapping, locking or catching during bending and straightening of the hand. If you feel pain at the base of the finger, notice difficulty straightening it or hear a characteristic "click" during movement, we invite you to OpenMed in Warsaw (Wola). Our specialists carry out diagnostics and qualification for treatment, including the trigger finger release procedure.
Trigger finger is a form of stenosing tenosynovitis of the flexor tendon sheath. The tendon thickens or the A1 pulley through which it runs narrows. As a result, finger movement stops being smooth, resistance appears and then the characteristic snap on straightening or bending. In more advanced cases the finger may remain locked in a bent position and require the help of the other hand to straighten.
Causes and symptoms of trigger finger
The cause of the condition cannot always be clearly identified. The risk is higher in people performing repetitive hand movements, doing manual work and in patients with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. The condition more often appears in people over 40 and more often affects women.
Symptoms usually develop gradually. Discomfort during finger movement appears first and over time may turn into pain, stiffness and a clear snapping during movement. Characteristic features also include tenderness at the base of the finger, morning hand stiffness and a feeling of the finger locking when gripping objects. In a more advanced stage, the finger may lock completely in a bent position.
What does trigger finger diagnostics look like at OpenMed?
Diagnosis is based on an orthopaedic consultation in the field of hand surgery. Our doctors carry out a detailed interview and an examination of the hand, assessing the range of motion, the location of pain and the presence of the characteristic finger snapping. In most cases the diagnosis can be made on the basis of the clinical examination.
If there are diagnostic doubts or a more detailed assessment of the tendon structures is needed, the doctor may recommend an ultrasound examination. It makes it possible to assess the condition of the tendons and tendon sheaths and rule out other causes of the symptoms.
When is surgery necessary?
In the early stage of the disease, conservative treatment is possible, including reducing overload, anti-inflammatory pharmacotherapy, rehabilitation or injections. If symptoms persist despite treatment, the finger regularly locks or the function of the hand is significantly limited, the orthopaedic doctor may qualify the patient for surgical treatment.
The most commonly performed procedure involves releasing the narrowed A1 pulley that impedes free movement of the tendon. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia and allows normal finger mobility to be restored. After the procedure the patient can gradually return to daily activities in line with the doctor's recommendations.
Return to function after surgery
Recovery after the procedure is usually short. Early mobilisation of the finger and adherence to wound care recommendations are crucial. If needed, our specialists may recommend exercises that improve mobility and grip strength.
In most cases the procedure effectively eliminates the snapping problem and allows the patient to return to daily activities without pain or limitations. An early consultation increases the chance of avoiding lasting changes and long-term problems with hand function.
Book a consultation at OpenMed Warsaw
If you notice finger snapping, pain when gripping objects or difficulty straightening your hand, book a consultation at OpenMed Warsaw (Wola). Our specialists will assess the severity of the condition and present possible treatment methods, including qualification for trigger finger surgery.
Registration by phone and online - the OpenMed team will help you choose a convenient appointment time.
FAQ - Trigger finger surgery
No. In the early stages, conservative treatment is possible. Surgery is considered when symptoms persist despite therapy or the finger keeps locking.
The most common are pain at the base of the finger, morning stiffness and a feeling of snapping during bending and straightening of the hand.
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so the patient does not feel pain during it.
Most patients return to daily activities within a few weeks, although the pace of recovery depends on individual predisposition and the nature of the work performed.
Recurrences are rare, but the risk depends on the cause of the condition and on coexisting diseases such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.