Trigger digits treated by longitudinal incision of the tendon sheath

ABSTRACT

We reviewed 40 digits of the hand in 34 adult patients treated surgically for triggering between 1983 and 1989. Triggering was noted most commonly in the 40-50 year age group and was twice as common in females as in males. The dominant hand was involved in 70% of patients with the thumb most frequently affected, next the middle finger and then the ring finger; the index and the little fingers were spared. All were relieved of triggering after longitudinal release of the tendon sheath, except one who had a distal lesion which required a second operation. Subsequent to the transverse skin incision, the use of blunt dissection to expose the tendon sheath avoided injury to the digital nerves. Surgical release of the trigger digit is safe and simple, providing lasting relief of symptoms