Ultrasound-guided infiltration in trigger finger

Ultrasound-guided injection of trigger finger is one of the treatments indicated for this condition, especially in cases that do not respond to rehabilitation treatment. This procedure involves injecting an anti-inflammatory medication around the affected flexor tendon and the obstructing pulley. Performing this injection requires ultrasound guidance, which allows us to view the target structures of our treatment in real time and precisely place the medication in the finger.

Ultrasound-guided injection of trigger finger is performed on an outpatient basis and lasts approximately 5 to 10 minutes. The following steps are followed:

• Preparation: The patient is seated with the palm facing upward and supported on the table. The flexor tendon and its pulley are located with a prior ultrasound, and the entry site is marked on the skin.
• Local anesthesia: Occasionally, a small amount of local anesthetic may be applied to the skin to reduce pain during the injection.
• Asepsis: the entire procedure is performed with sterilized materials and instruments.

The main indication for ultrasound-guided injections of trigger finger is in cases with palmar pain at the pulley level and an active trigger finger at the time of examination. This is also indicated in cases with flexion or extension blockages. The outcome is usually satisfactory in most patients, although in cases where the trigger finger persists or reappears after rhb and a maximum of three ultrasound-guided injections, surgical treatment will be mandatory.