Guidelines for Trigger Finger or Trigger Thumb Surgery

 You will generally need to be admitted to the hospital on the day of the operation.   The operation involves a small cut on the palm of the hand.   Usually this cut is stitched with dissolving stitches which do not require removal.   When you recover from the anaesthetic the hand will be bandaged to provide support and gentle pressure.   Following the operation the hand will be much more comfortable if it is kept elevated.   Elevation of the hand will also help to prevent swelling and stiffness in the fingers and bleeding from the cut.

 

The bandages should be left on the hand until the first post operative visit.   However if they become wet then they may require removal before this.   Generally speaking the bandages can be left off after about three days but the hand will be more comfortable with a bandage applied.

 

Following the operation it is important to move the fingers frequently.   This should be done at least three or four times per day. The fingers should be bent as far as possible and fully straightened each time. This will help to prevent stiffness.

 

Pain

 

It is normal to have some pain in the hand after this operation but the pain is not usually severe. Care should be taken to keep the hand elevated and painkilling drugs such as Aspirin and Codeine or Panadeine can be taken.   If the bandages seem excessively tight these may be loosened without disturbing the underlying dressing.   If the hand is still painful you should contact me or the hospital.