Ultrasound-guided trigger finger release

Trigger finger

Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) is a condition that affects the tendon in the hand. The tendon can get stuck, which causes the finger/thumb to click or lock when bent towards your palm.

What is an ultrasound-guided trigger finger release?

An ultrasound-guided trigger finger release involves releasing the affect sheath to allow the tendon inside to move freely again.

What are the benefits?

Reduction of hand pain and improved finger movement.

What are the risks and complications?

With any procedure, there is always a risk. It has been demonstrated that ultrasound-guided trigger finger release are safe. This procedure has been shown to have less risk of post-operation infection than an open procedure. Occasional side effects of this procedure include:

  • Risk of infection±if this occurs, it will usually require antibiotics and you should seek an immediate medical review by your GP, or go to your nearest A&E
  • Potential damage to the nerves, leading to numbness in part of the finger—this is minimised with the use of ultrasound guidance
  • Failure of the release
  • Bruising around the injection site

Please bear in mind that your doctor has recommended you for this procedure because they believe that the potential benefits of the injection outweigh any potential complications. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to speak with your doctor.

Tell the doctor before having the treatment if you:

  • Have had a steroid injection in the last few weeks—you usually need to wait at least 6 weeks between injections
  • Have had an allergic reaction to steroid in the past
  • Have an infection (including eye infections)
  • Have recently had, or are about to have, any vaccinations
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have any other conditions, such as diabetes, epilepsy, high blood pressure, or problems with your liver, heart or kidneys
  • Are taking other medicines such as anticoagulants (blood thinners) or anti-retrovirals
  • Are feeling unwell
  • Do not want the injection or no longer have symptoms

Preparation

No specific preparation is required for this procedure. You may eat and drink normally.

You may need to arrange for someone to take you home or take public transport as it is not recommended to drive for 12 hours after the procedure.

On the day

Please come to the X-ray Reception (1st Floor, Lift Bank D) at least 10 minutes before your appointment time. If you are late, it may not be possible to carry out your procedure and it will have to be rebooked.

Who performs the procedure?

The procedure will be performed by a radiologist trained in performing image-guided procedures. The radiologist will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions that you have. When they are sure that you understand the procedure you will be asked to sign a consent form.

What happens during the procedure?

The radiologist will perform a diagnostic ultrasound scan to confirm the location and extent of the problem as well as to check there are no other issues in the surrounding area.

The skin is cleaned with a sterile solution. Using the ultrasound probe, the needle is guided gently to the affected area and the medication is injected. The needle is removed and a plaster or dressing is applied. The procedure usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Will you feel any pain?

The injection of local anaesthetic will involve a small needle and will be similar to a blood test, if the area is very inflamed there may be more discomfort associated—you should tell the radiologist if you are finding the discomfort difficult to tolerate.

The injection may cause stinging briefly before the area becomes numb.

What to expect afterwards

Immediately after procedure, you may feel that your pain has gone or is significantly reduced. This is due to the local anaesthetic and the effect will last for a few hours. The effect of the trigger finger release varies from person to person, and a few people may not experience any benefit. Symptoms can be relieved for a few weeks to a few months.

When can I return to work?

You can return to work as soon as you feel able to. However, it is advisable to have the rest of the day off work.

Contact information

Imaging Department
1st Floor, Lift Bank D
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital
369 Fulham Road
London
SW10 9NH

Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm

If you need to change your appointment date or time, or if require an interpreter for your examination, please contact the booking team on 020 3315 2785/3.