This is a condition that affects the pulleys and tendons that are responsible for bending your fingers. It causes a painful ‘catching’ or ‘locking’ of the fingers or thumb as the tendon catches on the pulley. Ongoing damage every time the tendon ‘catches’ leads to further irritation and swelling. The finger may be difficult to bend (or straighten) and may even become locked in a fixed position.
Dr. Kim performs trigger finger release under local anesthesia. A small incision is made at the base of the affected finger and the pulley is released. The cut is stitched and a light dressing applied. It is encouraged that you start moving your finger almost immediately after surgery. You should be able to return to normal activities as soon as you feel comfortable.
Recovery
Recovery usually takes a few weeks with full range of motion and grip strength returning in this time. You may be required to undergo hand therapy to aid in your healing and rehabilitation. LEARN MORE
Treatment for Trigger Finger
Avoiding Fingertip Injuries
Importance of Certification
Picking the Right Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Kim is one of a few board certified hand surgeons in the area. In addition to doing 5 years of general surgery, 2 years of plastic surgery training , 1 year of research in wound healing, he also completed a 1 year hand surgical fellowship at the famous Kutz-Kleinert hand institute in Louisville, KY. Dr. Kim participated in the first US hand transplant in 1999. Dr. Kim has passed the intensive examinations to obtain (CAQH) board certification in hand surgery. He is also a member of the ASSH (American Society of Surgery of the Hand). He performs many of his hand surgeries with WALANT ( wide awake local anesthesia no tourniquet ) which makes the procedure and recovery fast and comfortable. Learn more