Anatomic outcome of percutaneous release among patients with trigger finger.

Objective: To investigate the adequacy and safety of percutaneous trigger finger release on symptomatic patients.

Methods: Two orthopedic non-hand surgeons performed percutaneous A1 pulley release on the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers with the use of a 19-gauge needle in 25 fingers of 24 patients. Open inspection was then performed to determine the extent of release and any injury to the surrounding anatomic structures.

Results: Triggering was eliminated in all fingers. Of the 25 A1 pulleys, 19 were partially released; only 6 were completely released. Noted injury included only superficial abrasions in 15 tendons. None of the patients had injury to the digital artery or nerve.

Conclusions: In the percutaneous release of trigger fingers, complete anatomic release of the A1 pulley is not always adequately achieved, even though clinically patients experience relief of triggering. It is a safe procedure for the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers as long as the recommended technique is observed.