What is Trigger Finger?

Also called "flexor tendonitis" or "stenosing tenosynovitis", trigger finger is a common condition caused by swelling of the tendon in the finger which prevents the tendon from passing easily through the tendon sheath.

The sheath acts as a guide for the tendon and as swelling worsens, the tendon meets increasing resistance which ultimately can produce a snapping or locking of the finger, thus the name trigger finger. It can often be painful and is more common in women and people with diabetes. People who utilize repetitive gripping actions are also more likely to develop the condition.

What causes Trigger Finger?

Inflammation of the tendon can be associated with several conditions or activities and can include the following:

  • Repetitive gripping actions or activities
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Diabetes

What treatment options are available?

Several treatments are available depending on severity of the condition. The physician may first choose anti-inflammatory medications, like aspirin or ibuprofen, supplemented with immobilization of the finger with a splint. Next, the doctor may choose cortisone shots to reduce the swelling. If neither of these produce the desired results, or if the condition is more severe, then simple surgery to release the affected tendon sheath may be required. If surgery is recommended, it can be performed in the physician's office by making a small incision in the palm of the patient's hand near the base of the affected finger. Like letting out the seam on a tight pair of pants, the surgeon will cut the tendon sheath open to let the tendon pass through freely. Relief is typically immediate and recovery is usually fast.

Trigger Tome

Trigger Tome® is a single-use, disposable precision surgical instrument that is specifically designed to provide the surgeon unparalleled accuracy when performing a trigger finger release procedure. With its narrow leading tip, a smaller incision is required to access the affected tendon sheath resulting in not only immediate relief for the patient, but faster recovery too.