10 Solutions for That 'Stuck' Finger: Effectively Treating Trigger Finger

9. Tenolysis

Tenolysis is a surgical procedure sometimes used to treat cases of trigger finger that have not responded to conservative treatment. This surgery can be done with local or general anesthesia, and patients need to stay in the hospital for one to two days after the procedure. Patients having general anesthesia will not be able to eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before their surgery, and some medications may need to be discontinued for seven days before the operation. During the procedure, the surgeon removes lumps and adhesions that prevent the tendon from gliding smoothly. They will begin by placing a tourniquet near the surgical site to restrict blood flow to that area. Next, the surgeon will make an incision so they can see the tendon and surrounding tissues. Some of the tissue will be cut to release the tendon. The surgeon will check the patient's ability to move the affected area during the procedure. Based on this information, they will know whether the tenolysis has been successful or whether an additional surgical intervention such as tendon reconstruction is needed. The incision site will be closed with stitches, and the area will be bandaged. Tenolysis performed on the flexor tendon of a finger typically takes around forty-five to sixty minutes. After returning home, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity for at least four weeks, and a physical therapy program is recommended to regain range of motion, strength, and function in the finger.