# Trigger Finger (Tenolysis) > Surgical procedure to release the tendon sheath and allow smooth finger movement - Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/trigger-finger - Category: [Hand Surgery](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/hand-surgery) - Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md - Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer ## Overview **Trigger finger**, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a sensation of locking or catching when you bend and straighten your finger. It occurs when the tendon sheath becomes inflamed and narrows, restricting the tendon's movement. **Dr Maresky** assesses each case individually and discusses conservative and surgical options where appropriate. ## The procedure Trigger finger release surgery is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. A small incision (approximately **1cm**) is made in the palm at the base of the affected finger. The constricted portion of the tendon sheath (A1 pulley) is carefully divided to allow the tendon to move freely again. The procedure typically takes **10-15 minutes** per finger and can be performed on multiple fingers simultaneously if needed. ## Candidate information - **Description:** Trigger finger surgery is recommended for patients who have not responded to conservative treatment or have severe symptoms. **Ideal candidates include:** ### Criteria - Patients with persistent finger catching or locking despite conservative treatment - Those experiencing pain that interferes with daily activities - Individuals with finger stiffness affecting work or hobbies - Patients with multiple trigger fingers - Those who have failed steroid injection therapy - Individuals with severe triggering that prevents finger movement - Patients seeking definitive treatment for long-term relief ## Preparation - **Timeline:** **1-2 weeks** before surgery ### Medical tests - **Blood work** if indicated - **ECG** if over 50 or with cardiac history - Medical clearance for chronic conditions ### Medications #### Medications to discuss stopping - **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **1-2 weeks** prior (with cardiologist approval if applicable) - **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen) **1 week** prior - **Stop** herbal supplements **1 week** prior #### Medications to continue - **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky** - Diabetics: discuss glucose management during surgery ### Lifestyle - **Smoking:** **Quit** smoking at least **3 weeks** before surgery - critical for hand wound healing - **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **48 hours** before surgery - **Fasting:** No food or drink after midnight the night before surgery ### Arrangements - **Arrange** transportation - you cannot drive with hand bandaged - **Arrange** help at home for **3-7 days** (difficulty with daily tasks) - **Prepare** one-handed meal options and setup - **Set up** sleeping area with hand elevation pillows - **Complete** work tasks requiring two hands before surgery - **Arrange** time off work (**1-4 weeks** depending on job) ## Recovery and aftercare Most patients can return to light activities within a few days. The small incision heals quickly, and stitches are typically removed after **10-14 days**. Full recovery typically takes **2-4 weeks**, with hand therapy recommended to restore full range of motion and strength. Patients can usually return to desk work within a few days and manual work within **2-3 weeks**. ## Expected results Many patients experience improvement in catching, locking, pain, and function after trigger finger release. Recovery timing and long-term outcomes vary according to the severity of the condition, general health, aftercare, and individual healing. ## Risks and considerations ### Normal Side Effects - **Description:** Normal side effects following trigger finger surgery include: #### Effects - Mild pain and swelling - Temporary stiffness - Small scar at incision site - Temporary sensitivity ### Other Side Effects - **Description:** Potential complications of trigger finger surgery may include: #### Effects - Infection (rare) - Nerve injury causing numbness - Tendon injury - Persistent stiffness - Scar tissue formation - Recurrence (very rare) - Chronic pain or sensitivity - **Disclaimer:** Complications are rare with trigger finger surgery. All risks will be discussed in detail during your consultation. ## Frequently asked questions ### What causes trigger finger? Trigger finger is caused by inflammation and thickening of the tendon sheath, often due to repetitive gripping activities, certain medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, age-related changes, or previous hand injuries. It's more common in women and people aged **40-60**. ### Can trigger finger be treated without surgery? Yes, mild cases may respond to conservative treatments including rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, or hand therapy. Surgery is recommended when conservative treatments fail or symptoms are severe. ### How long does trigger finger surgery take? The procedure typically takes **10-15 minutes** per finger and is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. Multiple fingers can be treated during the same session if needed. ### Will I be awake during trigger finger surgery? Yes, trigger finger surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you'll be awake but the area will be completely numb. This allows for immediate testing of finger movement during the procedure. ### When can I return to work after trigger finger surgery? Most patients can return to desk work within **2-3 days**. Those with manual jobs may need **2-3 weeks** off work. **Dr Maresky** will provide specific guidance based on your occupation and healing progress. ### Will I have a scar after trigger finger surgery? Yes, there will be a small scar (about **1cm**) in your palm at the base of the affected finger. The scar typically fades significantly over time and rarely causes functional problems. ### Can trigger finger come back after surgery? Recurrence is very rare after trigger finger release surgery, occurring in less than **2%** of cases. The procedure provides a permanent solution by completely releasing the constricted tendon sheath. ### How successful is trigger finger surgery? Many patients experience relief from catching and locking after trigger finger release. Recovery timing varies, and your consultation will cover expected healing, risks, and return to activity. ### Will I need hand therapy after trigger finger surgery? Hand therapy is often recommended to optimize recovery, restore full range of motion, and prevent stiffness. Most patients benefit from a few therapy sessions, though some may recover fully without formal therapy. ### How much does trigger finger surgery cost? The cost ranges from **R8000-R12000** depending on the complexity and number of fingers treated. This includes the surgical fee, facility costs, and follow-up care. Medical aid coverage may apply - our team will help verify your benefits. ### Can multiple trigger fingers be treated at once? Yes, multiple trigger fingers can often be treated during the same surgical session. This reduces overall recovery time and the need for multiple procedures. **Dr Maresky** will assess your specific situation during consultation. ## Indicative pricing - Estimate: R15,000 to R30,000 ZAR - Cost factor: Number of fingers affected - Cost factor: Open vs percutaneous - Cost factor: Anesthesia type - Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/trigger-finger - Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation. ## Consultation and contact - Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation - Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact