The safety of percutaneous trigger finger release

Abstract

This study attempted to determine the safety of percutaneous release of trigger fingers, with particular attention given to border digits and the thumb. We performed percutaneous release of the A1 pulley in six fresh frozen cadaveric hands utilizing established surface landmarks. After freezing all specimens, we performed cross-sections at the A1 pulley, avoiding dissection of soft tissues, which could alter the natural position of the digital nerves. There was no difference in the distance from the needle tract to the neurovascular bundle when comparing between digits, and the closest distance was 2.7 mm. There was no significant difference between the needle tract and the radial and ulnar digital nerves. Based on our findings, percutaneous trigger finger release can safely be performed on all digits, including the thumb, small fingers, and index fingers. © American Association for Hand Surgery 2007.