Complications Following Endoscopic and Open Trigger Finger Release: A Retrospective Comparative Study

Abstract

Background:

Open trigger finger release (OTFR) and endoscopic trigger finger release (ETFR) are effective methods in treating stenosing tenosynovitis. However, a paucity of literature exists comparing the techniques. This study describes and compares postoperative complications following OTFR and ETFR at a single institution.

Methods:

Patients undergoing trigger finger release between 2018 and 2020 within a single institution were identified. Electronic medical records were reviewed for patient demographics, surgical history, surgical characteristics, and clinical outcomes. Major and minor postoperative complications were assessed. Secondary outcome measures included tourniquet time and procedure time. Statistical analysis evaluated associations between postoperative complications, surgical technique, patient demographics, and surgical characteristics.

Results:

In total, 57 patients (80 digits) were included in the study: 42 digits treated with OTFR and 38 digits treated with ETFR. Mean follow-up time was 57.6 ± 69.0 days (range, 7-307 days) for ETFR and 34.2 ± 26.3 days (range, 6-120 days) for OTFR. Overall, major, and minor complication rates for the cohort were 8.8%, 1.8% and 7.0%, respectively. There were no major complications following ETFR and 1 following OTFR (4%), the isolated case being postoperative Chronic regional pain syndrome. Minor complication rates were similar following OTFR (8%) and ETFR (6%). Persistent digit stiffness and swelling were found to be the most prevalent minor complications (n = 2, respectively), followed by wound dehiscence (n = 1). Female patients were significantly more likely to experience postoperative complications.

Conclusions:

Major complications following trigger finger release are unlikely; however, minor complications are prominent. Patients treated with OTFR and ETFR showed similar postoperative complication rates. Continued investigations into the benefits of ETFR are warranted.