Trigger finger can make everyday hand movements painful and unpredictable. At Battersea Hospital, your consultant will assess the affected finger or thumb and recommend a personalised plan, from non-surgical care through to trigger finger release where appropriate.
BOOK A CONSULTATION MEET OUR SURGEONTrigger finger, or trigger thumb, develops when an irritated or thickened tendon cannot glide smoothly through its sheath. The finger may click, catch or lock in a bent position and can feel stiff or painful. It often affects the thumb or ring finger, although any finger can be involved.
Symptoms may improve with rest, splinting or a corticosteroid injection. If triggering persists, your consultant may discuss surgical release. Through a small incision, the surgeon opens the narrowed part of the tendon tunnel so the tendon can move more freely.
15–30 minutes
Usually local
Day case
Daily activities commonly within 1–2 weeks
Treatment depends on the severity and duration of your symptoms. Your consultant will examine the affected finger or thumb, discuss previous treatments and explain whether an injection, continued non-surgical care or release surgery is the most suitable next step.
01
Release surgery creates more room for the tendon to glide, helping the finger bend and straighten more smoothly.
02
Treatment aims to stop the catching or locking that can make everyday hand movements difficult.
03
The operation usually takes 15–30 minutes and is commonly performed under local anaesthetic.
04
Many patients return to everyday activities within 1–2 weeks, although recovery varies.
05
Recurrence after surgical release is uncommon, and your consultant will explain the expected outcome for you.
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Trigger finger release starts from £1,895. The exact cost depends on your assessment and treatment plan. After consultation, you will receive a personalised quotation explaining what is included.
From £1,895
Your personalised quote is confirmed after consultation.
Flexible finance options are available to help spread the cost of treatment. Eligibility and available terms will be confirmed during the application process.
Your consultant will give you advice tailored to your diagnosis, health and daily activities. These answers provide a general guide.
Trigger finger occurs when a tendon and its sheath become irritated or thickened, making it harder for the tendon to glide smoothly. This can cause clicking, catching, stiffness or locking in a bent position.
Surgery may be discussed if symptoms continue despite options such as rest, splinting or a corticosteroid injection. Your consultant will assess whether release surgery is appropriate for you.
Through a small incision, the surgeon opens the narrowed part of the tendon tunnel so the tendon can move more freely. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic as a day case and commonly takes 15–30 minutes.
Everyday activities are commonly possible within 1–2 weeks, although light use of the hand may begin sooner if your clinical team advises it. The wound and scar continue to settle over the following weeks, and recovery varies between patients.
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