For private consultations call 0330 1331 464 or email info@rikkimistry.com
Trigger Finger Surgery
Is a finger clicking, catching, or locking when you try to bend or straighten it? Trigger finger is a common but treatable hand condition.
Mr Rikki Mistry, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, offers expert trigger finger release surgery at private clinics in East Grinstead, Chatham, and Tunbridge Wells - with swift appointments and proven results.
Symptoms of Trigger Finger
Trigger finger - also known as stenosing tenosynovitis - occurs when a tendon sheath becomes inflamed and narrowed, causing the finger to catch or lock. It can affect any finger, including the thumb (trigger thumb surgery is also performed by Mr Mistry).
Signs include:
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A finger that locks or clicks when bending or straightening
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Pain or tenderness at the base of the affected finger
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A nodule or lump at the base of the finger in the palm
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Stiffness, especially in the morning
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Difficulty with gripping, writing, or using the hand normally
When steroid injections haven't provided lasting relief, or if the finger is locked, trigger finger release surgery is the most effective permanent solution.
Trigger Finger Release surgery - What to expect
Trigger finger surgery is a quick, straightforward procedure performed under local anaesthetic. Mr Mistry makes a small incision at the base of the affected finger to divide the constricted tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to glide freely again. Most patients notice an immediate improvement in movement.
Surgery for Trigger Thumb
Trigger thumb surgery follows the same principle - releasing the tight sheath to restore free movement. Recovery times are comparable to trigger finger surgery.
Mr Mistry holds clinics at convenient locations across Kent and East Sussex. Specialist private care is available close to home.
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East Grinstead
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Chatham
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Tunbridge Wells
Why Choose Mr Rikki Mistry?
Private Carpal Tunnel Surgery - Kent & East Sussex
Mr Mistry is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in hand and wrist surgery. Patients choose him for his combination of advanced surgical expertise, clear communication, and genuine care for their outcomes.
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BAPRAS and BSSH member
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Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons
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Specialist in carpal tunnel syndrome surgery, trigger finger, Dupuytren's contracture, and ganglion cyst removal
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Fee Assured - charges within your health insurer's benefit limits (Bupa, Vitality, Aviva, WPA, AXA and more)
FAQ: Trigger Finger Surgery
What causes trigger finger?
Trigger finger is caused by inflammation of the tendon or the sheath surrounding it, which causes the tendon to catch as it passes through the pulley system in the finger. It is more common in people who perform repetitive gripping activities and in those with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
How do I know if I have trigger finger?
Common signs include a clicking or catching sensation when bending the finger, a finger that locks in a bent position and needs to be straightened manually, pain at the base of the finger or in the palm, and stiffness particularly in the morning. A clinical examination by a specialist can confirm the diagnosis.
Can trigger finger be treated without surgery?
Yes, in the early stages. A steroid injection into the tendon sheath is effective for many patients and can provide months or years of relief. Splinting may help reduce symptoms in mild cases. If the finger has locked or symptoms have not responded to injection, surgical release is usually recommended.
What does trigger finger surgery involve?
Trigger finger release surgery involves a small incision at the base of the finger to divide the tight pulley that is causing the tendon to catch. It is performed under local anaesthetic as a day-case procedure and takes around 15 to 20 minutes. The finger should move freely immediately after surgery.
How long is recovery from trigger finger surgery?
The wound heals within about two weeks. Most patients can use the hand for light activities within a few days. Full finger movement typically returns within four to six weeks, with complete recovery taking up to three months.
Can trigger finger affect the thumb?
Yes. When the condition affects the thumb it is sometimes called trigger thumb, but it is the same underlying process. It is one of the more common sites for the condition and responds well to the same treatments, including steroid injection and surgical release.
Is trigger finger surgery available on private insurance?
Yes. Trigger finger release surgery is covered by most private health insurers. Mr Mistry is fee assured, meaning he charges within your insurer's benefit limits, with no unexpected additional fees for Bupa, Vitality, Aviva, AXA and WPA policyholders.
Where can I have trigger finger surgery with Mr Mistry?
Mr Rikki Mistry holds specialist hand surgery clinics in East Grinstead, Chatham and Tunbridge Wells, serving patients across Kent and East Sussex.