Functional Outcome of Surgical Management of Congenital Trigger Thumb – A Prospective Study

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Congenital trigger thumb is an uncommon anomaly of children. Its management is controversial, ranging fromobservation to extensive release.Aim: The aim of the study was to study the functional outcome of surgical management of the congenital trigger thumb in children.Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, 26 thumbs (21 pediatrics) underwent surgical release of the trigger thumb.Surgery was performed under general anesthesia with a tourniquet.Results: The prospective study demonstrated that pre-operative range of motion (ROM) averaged 36° loss of extension (range,0°–90°; standard deviation [SD], 22°); and post-operative ROM averaged 1° loss of extension (range, 0°–30°; SD, 7°) at 3 yearsfollow-up. There were no secondary surgeries. The children were being followed up for 3 years. All of them are found to havea good functional outcome and free of any complications until follow-up for 3 years.Conclusion: Congenital trigger thumb is a rare anomaly which is noticed by the parents around the age of 1½ years. Asconservative treatment invariably failed to give good results, all children are managed surgically with better cosmetic andfunctional results.