Trigger Finger Flashcards
What is trigger finger?
A condition caused by thickening of the A1 pulley, leading to difficulty in smooth tendon movement.
What is the epidemiology of trigger finger?
Affects ~2% of the general population; ~20% of individuals with diabetes; more common in women (~6:1).
What is the most commonly affected finger in trigger finger?
Ring finger, followed by the thumb.
What are the main symptoms of trigger finger?
Pain, tenderness, a palpable nodule at the palmar base of the affected finger, catching/locking in a flexed position.
What physical exam finding is characteristic of trigger finger?
Painful popping or clicking with finger flexion and extension.
What is the pathophysiology of trigger finger?
Fibrocartilaginous metaplasia of the A1 annular pulley causes a loss of smooth gliding of the flexor tendons.
What condition commonly coexists with trigger finger?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (seen in ~60% of patients).
Why are multiple fingers often involved in diabetic patients with trigger finger?
Due to increased fibrocartilage changes in tendon sheaths.
What is the first-line treatment for trigger finger?
Conservative management: NSAIDs, splinting, physical therapy.
When are corticosteroid injections indicated for trigger finger?
For moderate or persistent symptoms; effective in up to 90% of cases.
What are potential complications of corticosteroid injections for trigger finger?
Tendon degradation, fat atrophy, skin depigmentation.
When is surgical intervention indicated for trigger finger?
Severe symptoms, failure of conservative therapy after 6 weeks, or recurrent cases.
What is the surgical procedure used to treat trigger finger?
A1 pulley release.
What type of splinting is recommended for trigger finger?
MCP extension splint (preferred) or DIP extension splint for 4–6 weeks.
