Introduction
When symptoms are not improved with non-surgical measures, surgery is recommended.
The aim of surgery is to cut the thickened A1 pulley and thus allow the tendon to move freely. This resolves the pain and locking / snapping phenomenon as well.
Procedure
Surgery is performed under general or local anaesthetic. Surgery takes 10-15 minutes and is performed as day surgery.
An approximately 1 cm incision is made in the skin. The pulley is identified and released. The tendon is examined to make sure it glides freely.
The skin is closed with dissolvable sutures.
Recovery
- Day surgery procedure.
- Commence finger exercises immediately.
- Hand therapy may be required.
- Drive within 2-3 days.
- Return to office work within 2-3 days.
- Return to Manual work within 1-2 weeks.
Results
Some stiffness post-surgery is expected and usually resolves. It may take up to 3 months for swelling and wound to settle.
Risks and Complications
These include:
- Stiffness.
- Nerve injury <1%.
- Recurrence 2-3%.