Trigger Finger Surgery Center in Richardson and Dallas, TX

Local orthopaedic surgeons offer advanced treatment options at Eminent Medical Center’s trigger finger surgery center serving Richardson and Dallas, TX. If you find one or more finger bones stuck in a bent position or cannot keep your finger straight without discomfort, you might be dealing with a condition where the flexor tendon gets caught in the tendon sheath, causing what is commonly referred to as trigger finger. Those with rheumatoid arthritis or repetitive use occupations where a finger remains in a flexed position are typically those who develop trigger finger.

At Eminent Medical’s DFW trigger finger surgery center, our orthopaedic surgeons offer a range of treatments from steroid injections to trigger finger surgery for more advanced trigger finger cases. Our approach focuses on a high success rate in relieving trigger finger symptoms and restoring function. Partnering with experienced healthcare providers and hand therapist specialists, we ensure personalized care for patients seeking the best options for orthopedic surgery in Richardson.

With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to patient care, Eminent Medical Center is the premier choice for trigger finger surgery in Dallas and Richardson, Texas. Discover how we can help you overcome trigger fingers and regain your quality of life. Call us today at (469) 910-8800 to schedule a consultation with one of our premier orthopedic physicians.

What is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger is a condition that affects the finger or thumb, where the flexor tendons responsible for bending the trigger digits become restricted. The flexor tendon glides through a tendon sheath, also known as the flexor sheath, which allows smooth movement. In trigger finger, the flexor tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, causing difficulty in moving the finger or thumb from a flexed position.

Trigger finger occurs when inflammation creates a band of tissue called a “pulley” (normally the A1 pulley), which sticks the tendon to the finger bone. The tendon sheath can become thickened, often around the A1 pulley, a specific part of the flexor sheath located at the base of the finger, restricting the smooth movement of the tendons. This condition can affect any flexor tendon or finger, with the ring finger and thumb being the most commonly affected digits.

Additionally, trigger finger can be associated with other conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. The inflammation and thickening of the tendon sheath impede the movement of the thumb or finger bones, making it challenging to extend the affected digit from its flexed position.

Trigger Finger Symptoms

Trigger Finger symptoms include:

Stiffness: With symptoms worse in the morning
Pain: Localized at the base of the finger or thumb.
Popping or Clicking Sensation: When moving the finger or thumb.
Tender Lump: At the base of the finger or thumb on the palm side.
Finger Locking: In a flexed position or bent position, suddenly popping straight.
Swelling or Numbness: At the base of the finger or thumb.
Tenderness: Around the A1 pulley area of the tendon sheath.

What is Trigger Thumb?

Trigger thumb, like trigger finger, is a condition where the thumb gets stuck in a bent position and then straightens with a snap. Both are forms of stenosing tenosynovitis involving the flexor tendon and tendon sheath inflammation.

What Causes Trigger Finger or Thumb?

Trigger finger or thumb is caused by inflammation and swelling of the flexor tendons and their tendon sheaths. This inflammation prevents the flexor tendon from gliding smoothly, causing the thumb to catch or lock in a bent position or flexed position.

The inflammation creates a nodule or thickening in the flexor tendon, making it difficult to pass through the tendon sheath smoothly. According to the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, diabetes, and carpal tunnel syndrome may also lead to this debilitating condition.

Trigger Finger Test: Getting a Trigger Finger Diagnosis

The trigger finger test, often used to diagnose trigger finger, involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. During the test, the provider will ask the patient to open and close their hand and make a fist. They will observe the finger or thumb movement and look for any common complications.

The provider may also palpate the base of the finger or thumb to feel for a tender lump, which indicates inflammation. The healthcare provider will also ask the patient about their finger symptoms and any activities or exercises that worsen them.

Non-Surgical Trigger Finger Treatment

Non-surgical trigger finger treatment at Eminent Medical Center in Richardson, TX, includes a finger splint to rest the affected digit or a steroid injection to reduce the inflammation. These conservative treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and restore hand function without resorting to surgery for trigger finger.

Trigger Finger Splint

For many patients with mild trigger finger, a splint is often recommended as a non-surgical treatment option. A finger splint can help alleviate symptoms over a few months with regular use by immobilizing the finger in a neutral position. Coupled with stretching exercises, using a finger splint can sometimes improve finger mobility and reduce pain.

Corticosteroid Injection

Corticosteroid injections are a steroid injection treatment for trigger finger. Steroid injections work by injecting medication directly into the affected tendon (typically the A1 pulley) to reduce inflammation, allowing it to glide freely within its tendon sheath. Administered with ultrasound guidance, these steroid injections are often given in a series, with patients usually requiring a second injection a few weeks after the initial steroid injection. Patients can expect improvement in symptoms within several weeks following the second injection, helping to alleviate pain and temporarily restore normal finger movement.

Trigger Finger Surgery in Dallas and Richardson, TX

If other treatments, such as splinting or a corticosteroid injection, have not provided relief from your trigger finger symptoms, then surgical intervention might be necessary. Eminent Medical Center in Dallas and Richardson, TX, offers surgical procedure options like percutaneous or open trigger finger release surgeries that target the A1 pulley. These effective solutions offer a high success rate for advanced trigger finger patients.

Contact Eminent Medical Center to explore options for trigger finger surgery in Dallas and Richardson, Texas.

Percutaneous Trigger Finger Release Surgery

Percutaneous trigger finger release surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at relieving symptoms of trigger finger. During this trigger finger surgery, our staff will use a local anesthetic to numb your palm. Then, one of our experienced orthopaedic surgeons will use a needle or make a small incision near the base of the affected finger. The surgeon then releases the constricted tendon sheaths, particularly targeting the A1 pulley, a tissue that contributes to the locking mechanism of the finger.

By releasing this tissue, this trigger finger surgery allows the affected tendon to move more freely, alleviating the catching or locking sensations. Patients often experience relief shortly after the surgical procedure, with thumb or finger symptoms improving within a few days to weeks post-procedure.

Open Trigger Finger Release Surgery

For severe cases of trigger finger where other treatments, such as steroid injections or splinting, have not provided relief, open trigger finger release surgery may be necessary. This safe procedure involves making a small incision in the palm or at the base of the affected digit after the area has been numbed. The incision is made in the palm to access and release the A1 pulley, a structure that causes the finger or thumb to lock. By cutting through the A1 pulley, the constricted flexor tendon can move freely again, alleviating symptoms of pain and stiffness. Patients generally experience relief shortly after the surgery, with a full recovery and return to normal activities typically expected within a few weeks.

Contact Eminent Medical Center to learn more about open surgery for trigger finger in the DFW area.

Trigger Thumb Surgery in Dallas and Richardson, TX

At Eminent Medical Center in Dallas and Richardson, TX, we utilize current concepts in trigger thumb surgery to provide relief when other options make symptoms worse. Our advanced options, including percutaneous release and open surgery, target the root cause of trigger digits.

Contact Eminent Medical Center today to learn about our cutting-edge surgical treatments and regain pain-free hand movement.

What to Expect: Trigger Finger Surgery in Eminent's DFW Medical Center

At Eminent Medical Center, patients undergoing trigger finger surgery in Dallas or Richardson, TX, can expect a comprehensive pre-surgical assessment for readiness. During trigger finger surgery, whether through percutaneous or open-release methods, the goal is to alleviate symptoms and restore normal finger function. Post-surgery care focuses on managing discomfort and promoting recovery, aiming for a swift return to daily activities.

Contact us to discover more about the process and what to anticipate throughout trigger finger surgery at Eminent’s DFW Medical Center.

Before the Trigger Finger Medical Procedure

Before your trigger finger surgery in Dallas or Richardson, Texas, at Eminent’s Medical Center, you’ll have a one-on-one consultation with an experienced healthcare provider to discuss medical conditions and outline the plan for surgical intervention.

On the day of your procedure, you’ll be greeted by our friendly staff as you check in and get prepped for surgery. You’ll meet with the anesthesiologists and orthopaedic surgeons, who will explain the process and address any concerns. With a personalized approach, we aim to ease your worries and prepare you for a smooth and successful procedure.

During Percutaneous Trigger Finger Release Surgery

During percutaneous trigger finger release surgery at our DFW Medical Center, the procedure is done under local anesthesia. A small needle is used to release the tendon, allowing the finger to move freely again. The process is quick and minimally invasive, with little to no scarring. Patients can expect a short recovery time, often returning to daily activities shortly after the procedure.

During Open Trigger Finger Release Surgery

During open trigger finger release surgery at Eminent’s DFW Medical Center, a small incision is made in the palm under local anesthesia. The surgeon then carefully releases the A1 pulley to allow the tendon to move freely. The procedure typically takes about 20 minutes.

After surgery, the incision is closed with stitches, and a bandage is applied. Patients can expect a straightforward process focusing on relieving symptoms and improving hand function.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery for the Affected Finger or Thumb

After trigger finger surgery, patients receive rest and monitoring at the hospital to reduce swelling and manage pain. Once released, they will then work with a hand therapist to perform gentle exercises that promote mobility and help your trigger finger heal.

Some common complications, such as excessive swelling and poor wound healing, can occur. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate attention from your medical care team to avoid potential infection. Full recovery typically takes a few weeks, with most patients regaining average finger or thumb function during this period.

Why Choose Eminent Medical Surgery Center for Trigger Finger Treatment in Dallas and Richardson, Texas

At Eminent Medical Surgery Center, we understand the discomfort and frustration that trigger fingers can cause. Our considerate team offers a range of treatment options, from non-surgical approaches like corticosteroid injections to advanced trigger finger surgery options such as percutaneous and open-release surgeries. Using innovative technology, our orthopaedic surgeons provide effective treatment and a smoother recovery process, complete with post-operative care and hand therapy to help you regain full function.

What truly sets Eminent Medical Center apart as the premier hand surgery center in Richardson is our dedication to your well-being and the caring approach of our orthopaedic surgeons, who specialize in hand surgery. We provide personalized treatment plans focusing on your individual needs and concerns. Choose Eminent Medical Center for your trigger finger treatment and experience the compassionate care you deserve. Contact us today at (469) 910-8800 or reach out online to schedule your consultation and begin your journey to pain-free hand movement.