Trigger finger
About trigger finger
Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition in which one of the fingers or the thumb becomes stuck in a bent position and may snap or ‘trigger’ straight suddenly.
This is caused by thickening of the tendon or its sheath, which restricts smooth movement. Trigger finger can interfere with daily activities such as typing, gripping objects, and performing fine motor tasks.
Procedure details
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Trigger finger surgery aims to release these contractures and restore hand function.
Dr Lisa Ellis’ surgical focus is on restoring smooth finger movement, relieving pain, and optimising hand function.
Surgery is considered when functional limitation, pain, or progressive contracture affects daily life.
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The cost of trigger finger surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure, whether it involves one or multiple fingers, and whether it is performed as a day case or requires hospital admission. Most trigger finger procedures are performed as day surgery.
Costs are inclusive of surgeon’s fee, hospital/day surgery fees, anaesthetist’s fee and routine follow-up appointments.
A detailed estimate will be provided following your consultation with Dr Ellis.
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Your consultation is conducted at our Mornington clinic with Dr Lisa Ellis and our specialist nursing team.
During the consultation, we will:
Assess which finger(s) are affected and severity of locking or stiffness
Review previous treatments such as splints, injections, or hand therapy
Examine finger movement, strength, and hand function
The goals of surgery will be discussed, including restoring smooth finger motion and relieving pain.
Your overall health and suitability for anaesthesia will also be assessed.
Detailed instructions will be provided for surgery preparation and recovery.
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Trigger finger surgery is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital.
The procedure involves making a small incision at the base of the affected finger to release the constricted tendon sheath. This allows the tendon to glide freely, restoring normal finger movement.
Surgery typically takes 30–45 minutes, depending on the number of fingers involved.
Post-operative dressings and, in some cases, a splint are applied to support healing and protect the surgical site.
Local anaesthetic may be used during surgery to reduce bleeding and manage pain post-operatively.
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Canvas Plastic Surgery provides tailored post-operative care to support optimal recovery.
Early finger movement is encouraged to restore mobility and prevent stiffness.
Hand therapy may be recommended to optimise function.
Your return to work and daily activities depends on your occupation:
Light duties: 2–3 weeks
Manual or heavy work: 3–4 weeks
Full recovery is usually achieved within a few weeks, although some patients may experience mild stiffness or swelling for several months.
Other considerations
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There are many potential complications from surgery and thankfully, the majority of these are extremely rare.
Bleeding, infections, wound healing problems and scars are potential complications of any procedure.
Complications will be discussed during your consultation with specific relevance to the surgery you will be having.
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Contact Canvas Plastic Surgery to obtain specific information about your condition and treatment options.