Ultrasound‐guided microinvasive trigger finger release technique using an 18‐gauge needle with a blade at the tip: A prospective study

Abstract Background Open surgical trigger finger release has limited success and the risk of complications; however, percutaneous techniques offer a successful alternative. There is limited understanding of the success of percutaneous trigger finger release. Objective To prospectively evaluate the functional outcomes of patients with Green classification Grade 2 to 4 trigger finger treated with an ultrasound‐guided microinvasive trigger finger release using a special 18‐gauge needle with a blade at the tip. Design Prospective, case‐series study. Setting This study took place at an academic institution by one sports medicine physician (R.E.C.) with subspecialty training and certification in musculoskeletal ultrasound. Patients Sixty patients (79 cases) met criteria and agreed to participate in this study; 19 patients had multiple fingers treated. Average patient age was 62.8 years (SD 10.2). Average trigger finger severity diagnosis was Grade 3. Interventions Patients were treated with an ultrasound‐guided microinvasive trigger finger release using a special 18‐gauge needle with a blade at the tip. Main Outcome Measurements Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH), numerical rating scale (NRS), and Nirschl scores were captured preprocedure, at various time points, and at final follow‐up. Changes between preprocedure and final follow‐up were analyzed by paired t test ( p < .05). Differences were also analyzed between finger, grade level, and gender by repeated measures analyses of variance ( p < .05). Results No adverse events were documented perioperatively or postoperatively. Average follow‐up time was 18.4 months (SD 4.6). At final follow‐up, 100% of patients reported no recurrence of catching/locking, 97% had complete resolution of symptoms and significant improvement in QuickDASH scores, and 99% required no further treatment. All measurements showed a decrease in pain and symptoms over time. The improvements in QuickDASH score, NRS, and Nirschl scale and the resolution of mechanical symptoms were all statistically significant. Conclusions Ultrasound‐guided release using the 18‐gauge needle with a blade provides significant functional improvement and full resolution of mechanical symptoms with minimal adverse events.