Recalcitrant Trigger Finger Managed With Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Resection

Although trigger finger is a condition commonly treated by orthopedic surgeons, we have not found sufficient studies in the literature addressing the treatment of trig­ger finger that persists following A1 pulley release.

We identified 12 fingers in 11 patients with symptoms of trigger finger following A1 pulley release who sub­sequently underwent resection of 1 or both slips of the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon. Ten patients (11 fingers) presented for follow-up at a mean of 21 months after surgery. All patients had resolution of their symp­toms with a mean visual analog score of 1.5 and a mean DASH score of 17. Grip and pinch strength were compa­rable to the contralateral side. Mean total active range of motion of the affected digit was 252°.

Resection of 1 or both slips of the flexor digitorum superficialis is an effective method for treatment of recalcitrant trigger finger.