What is percutaneus trigger finger release and what is the advantage over traditional open release?
Percutaneus A-1 pulley release is the least invasive and the least uncomfortable and therefore the best treatment for chronic trigger finger or trigger thumb. The open technique requires a trip to the operating room. The hand is painful for weeks and both the soreness and the need to keep the wound clean slow a person down. I have been using a needle technique for 13 years. Patients are evaluated and completely treated in a single office visit. Most patients require no medication for discomfort. The only stipulation is that the patient’s finger or thumb has to be actively snapping in order to apply this technique. This usually means a morning appointment since obvious triggering predominates in the morning. I do not offer this technique for infants and toddlers for congenital trigger thumb due to lack of cooperation.
