Hand & wrist · Tendon release

Trigger finger release surgery

Trigger finger release is a quick outpatient procedure for stenosing tenosynovitis, dividing the A1 pulley at the base of the affected finger so the tendon can glide smoothly again — addressing painful catching or locking. Consultations with our fellowship-trained surgeons in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later. Most patients use the hand for light activities the same day, with sutures removed at 10–14 days and a return to full activity over the following weeks.

At Pathway, our fellowship-trained hand and wrist surgeons perform trigger finger release surgery. Consultations are available in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later.

Book a consultation (647) 799-3230
  • Performed under local anesthesia
  • Light hand use same day for most
  • Surgery in 2–4 weeks
  • No referral required
Patient pouring coffee with a comfortable everyday grip after hand recovery
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Local anesthesia

At a glance

Trigger finger release surgery at a glance

Trigger finger release is a quick outpatient procedure for stenosing tenosynovitis, dividing the A1 pulley at the base of the affected finger so the tendon can glide smoothly again — addressing painful catching or locking.

1–3 days
to first consultation
2–4 weeks
from consult to surgery
Same day
light hand use for most patients
10–14 days
until sutures are removed
The condition

What is trigger finger?

Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) occurs when the flexor tendon becomes inflamed or develops a nodule, making it difficult to glide smoothly through the pulley system that holds it close to the bone. This causes the finger to catch, click, or lock in a bent position.

Trigger finger release is a simple procedure that divides the A1 pulley — the structure that becomes too tight — to allow the tendon to move more freely.

Common symptoms

The procedure

A1 pulley release.

A straightforward procedure performed under local anesthesia.

  1. 1

    Local anesthesia

    The base of the affected finger is numbed with a small injection

  2. 2

    Small incision

    A small incision (about 1 cm) is made in the palm at the base of the finger

  3. 3

    Pulley release

    The A1 pulley is carefully divided, freeing the tendon to glide smoothly

  4. 4

    Immediate movement

    You can typically move the finger immediately after the procedure

A quick recovery for most

Trigger finger release is one of the quickest hand surgeries to recover from. Many patients notice improvement in the triggering shortly after surgery, although some soreness at the incision site is normal for a few weeks.

Multiple fingers: more than one trigger finger can be released during the same procedure if needed — your surgeon will discuss whether this is appropriate for you.

Your surgeon

Our trigger finger release specialist.

Our fellowship-trained surgeon with expertise in hand and upper extremity surgery.

Dr. Bashar Alolabi, trigger finger surgeon

Dr. Bashar Alolabi

Shoulder, elbow & hand specialist · Cleveland Clinic fellowship trained

Dr. Bashar Alolabi is a shoulder, elbow & hand specialist, fellowship trained at the Cleveland Clinic.

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Your recovery

Recovery after trigger finger release.

  1. 1

    Same day

    Light use

    Most patients use the hand for light activities

  2. 2

    Weeks 1–2

    Protect & move

    Keep the dressing clean and dry; move the finger gently to prevent stiffness

  3. 3

    Days 10–14

    Sutures out

    Sutures are removed at 10–14 days

  4. 4

    Weeks 2–4

    Back to normal

    Gradual return to normal activities as palm tenderness resolves

Same day

Light hand use

For most patients

10–14 days

Sutures removed

Keep the dressing clean and dry until then

2–4 weeks

Full grip returning

Gradual return to normal activities

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Yes, multiple trigger fingers can be released during the same procedure if needed. Your surgeon will discuss whether this is appropriate for your situation.

Recurrence in the same finger after surgical release is rare. However, trigger finger can develop in other fingers, particularly in patients with diabetes or inflammatory conditions.

Cortisone injections can be effective, especially for mild cases. However, if injections have not provided lasting relief after 1-2 attempts, surgical release offers a more definitive solution.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly with our team to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.

Next step

Start your care journey.

Schedule a consultation to discuss your trigger finger and explore treatment options. No referral required.

Book a consultation (647) 799-3230
Related links

Continue your research.

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