Endoscopic Trigger Finger Release
The first sign of trigger finger is a feeling of stiffness and difficulty bending the finger. There may be swelling in the palm. Later, as the symptoms increase, the finger may “get stuck” in a bent position and have to be straightened with the help of the other hand. When the finger does move, it may snap, as it becomes “unstuck.”
Endoscopic Trigger Finger Release
New endoscopic techniques allow the orthopaedic surgeon to perform the release procedure through very small incisions with the aid of an endoscope. An endoscope is a very small video camera (smaller than a pencil) that allows the surgeon to see without the need for a large incision. The incisions are so small, in fact, that no stitches are used.
During surgery, the tight portion of the tendon sheath is released to take the pressure off of the tendon.
The procedure is now performed through an incision less than 1/8 to ¼ inch in length using an instrument called in endoscope. This allows the structure to be divided using small instruments under endoscopic visualization. Because the incisions are so small, no stitches are required. Small pieces of tape are placed over the incisions. Most patients are able to return to work the day after surgery. Because no stitches are utilized, there is no painful stitch removal.
