Stenosing Tenosynovitis (trigger finger)

Stenosing tenosynovitis, also known as trigger finger, is a condition characterised by a popping sensation in the joint when a finger straightens and bends. In severe cases, the finger may become locked into the bent position, which can prohibit you from performing many daily tasks. The disorder occurs when the tendons in that finger can no longer move smoothly through the sheath that surrounds it.

The culprit in trigger finger is inflammation in the finger that narrows the opening of the sheath, often brought on by repetitive movements like typing or gripping objects. The problem is more prevalent in women than men, and is also more common in people that have certain medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.

If you do not get relief from stenosing tenosynovitis through conservative therapy, surgery may be recommended. Dr Teston offers surgery for this condition at her plastic surgery practice, providing you with relief from pain, restored function and the best cosmetic results possible.

Before Surgery

Before you become eligible for surgical treatment of stenosing tenosynovitis, you will probably be prescribed some conventional forms of treatment, including:

• Ice, heat and rest to allow the inflammation to subside on its own
• Splinting at night to hold the finger in a straight position and rest the tendon
• Steroid injections that reduce inflammation

When these options are not effective in reducing pain and improving the movement of the finger, surgery may be needed to release the tendon from the sheath for easier movement.

During Surgery

In most cases, Dr Teston performs surgery for stenosing tenosynovitis using general anaesthesia. The procedure involves an incision at the base of the affected finger, which gives Dr Teston access to the tendon sheath so that she can enlarge the opening. This allows the tendon to move smoothly, eliminating the popping and locking up of the finger joint.

This surgery is relatively quick, and patients will spend a short time in recovery before they are allowed to return home. It is important that someone remains with you for the first 24 hours after your procedure to ensure that your recovery from the general anaesthesia is safe and comfortable.

After Surgery

The finger may be sore for a few days after the procedure, which may make it difficult for you to see your full results right away. Once the finger heals, you should see significant improvement in the movement of your finger. If your finger had been debilitated for some time, you might need physiotherapy to help you regain full strength and function of the treated finger. Surgery is often the only way to provide long-term, even permanent relief for this condition.

Stenosing tenosynovitis is a crippling condition that can leave you without the ability to use your hand normally in some cases. If conservative treatments do not offer the relief you are hoping for, surgery can provide the long-lasting, dramatic restoration you need to regain full function of your hand and an improved cosmetic appearance. To find out more about this condition or its surgical treatment, contact Dr Teston on (02) 9708 3511.

*The information about Stenosing Tenosynovitis was reviewed by Dr Leana Teston. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using our contact form below.