Ultrasound-guided micro-invasive trigger finger release technique combined with three tests to confirm a complete release

• Published in: American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation
• Main Authors: Colberg, Ricardo E, Pantuosco, John, Fleisig, Glenn, Drogosz, Monika
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 22.06.2020
• ISSN: 1537-7385
• DOI: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001510

Trigger finger at the A1 pulley is a common cause of hand pain leading to functional limitations. This study evaluated the outcomes of patients treated with a micro-invasive ultrasound-guided trigger finger release technique using an 18 blade and described three tests that confirm a complete release. A retrospective chart review and cross-sectional study of 46 cases of A1 pulley trigger finger releases in 28 patients performed at a private, sports medicine clinic using this technique was completed, meeting power criteria. Primary outcome measure was the resolution of mechanical catching/locking; secondary outcome measures were reduction in Visual Analog Scale for pain and improvement of function in the modified Nirschl Scale. Complete release was achieved in all patients with no recurrence of catching/locking during the first year (p<0.0001). 98% of patients had significant pain and functional improvement (p<0.0001). There were no complications peri-operatively and post-operatively. The three confirmatory tests ensured that all cases obtained a successful outcome. This technique combined with confirmatory tests resulted in full resolution of the locking for all patients and statistically significant reduction in pain and improvement in function.