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HAND & WRIST SURGERY
Trigger Finger Release
Relieve painful clicking, catching and locking in the finger or thumb.
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 SURGEONWhat is Trigger Finger?
Trigger 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.
TREATMENT DETAILS
At a Glance.
Procedure time
15–30 minutes
Anaesthetic
Usually local
Hospital stay
Day case
Recovery
Daily activities commonly within 1–2 weeks
SUITABILITY
Is Trigger Finger Release Right for Me?
Surgery may be considered if you:
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.
- Have painful clicking, catching or locking when bending or straightening a finger.
- Find that the finger becomes stuck in a bent position or needs help to straighten.
- Have persistent symptoms despite measures such as rest, splinting or a corticosteroid injection.
- Find that symptoms interfere with work, hobbies or everyday tasks.
TREATMENT BENEFITS
Benefits of Trigger Finger Release
01
Freer Movement
Release surgery creates more room for the tendon to glide, helping the finger bend and straighten more smoothly.
02
Relief From Painful Locking
Treatment aims to stop the catching or locking that can make everyday hand movements difficult.
03
Focused Day-Case Procedure
The operation usually takes 15–30 minutes and is commonly performed under local anaesthetic.
04
Fast Return to Function
Many patients return to everyday activities within 1–2 weeks, although recovery varies.
05
Long-Lasting Improvement
Recurrence after surgical release is uncommon, and your consultant will explain the expected outcome for you.
YOUR OUTCOME
Smoother, More Comfortable Movement.
The aim of treatment is to stop painful locking and help the finger or thumb move more freely. Your consultant will explain the likely outcome based on the severity and duration of your symptoms.
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Your Trigger Finger Consultant
Trigger finger consultations are available with Mr George Murphy. He will assess your symptoms, explain the available options and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
Mr George Murphy
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TREATMENT PRICING
Trigger Finger Release Cost
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.
Trigger Finger Release
From £1,895
Your personalised quote is confirmed after consultation.
Finance Options Available
Flexible finance options are available to help spread the cost of treatment. Eligibility and available terms will be confirmed during the application process.
Book Your Consultation
Take the First Step Towards Easier Movement
Your consultant will examine the affected finger or thumb, review your symptoms and discuss any treatment you have already tried. You will receive a clear explanation of non-surgical and surgical options, expected recovery and the likely benefits and risks.
Our team is here to guide you through every stage of your care.
HAND & WRIST CARE
Related Treatments
TRIGGER FINGER FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Know Before Treatment.
Your consultant will give you advice tailored to your diagnosis, health and daily activities. These answers provide a general guide.
Trigger Finger Treatment FAQs
What causes trigger finger?
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.
When might surgery be recommended?
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.
What happens during trigger finger release?
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.
How long does recovery take?
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.
Need Help With Trigger Finger?
If painful clicking, catching or locking is making everyday hand movements difficult, our specialist team can help you understand the cause and your treatment options.
Contact us to arrange a consultation.
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