Post-Trigger Finger Surgery Care: What You Need to Know

Traditional trigger finger surgery

This Friday, I have scheduled a trigger finger release surgery.
The doctor informed me that I cannot get the area wet for three days after the surgery, and I can only get it wet after the stitches are removed.
However, I have seen online posts stating that one should avoid getting the area wet and returning to work for 7-14 days post-surgery.
How should I care for the area after the surgery?

jj, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/14

Dr. Li Yongheng reply Orthopedics

It is still recommended to avoid contact with water after the stitches are removed.
Generally, stitches can be removed 7-10 days post-surgery, so it is reasonable to avoid water and heavy lifting during this period.
Post-operative care should include daily dressing changes and taking care of the wound.

Reply Date: 2019/05/14

More Info

Post-trigger finger surgery care is crucial for a successful recovery and to ensure that your finger regains its full range of motion. Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, occurs when the tendons in the fingers become inflamed, causing pain and difficulty in movement. Surgery is often performed to release the affected tendon, allowing for smoother motion. Here’s what you need to know about post-operative care:

Immediate Post-Operative Care
1. Keep the Area Dry: As your doctor mentioned, it’s essential to keep the surgical site dry for at least three days post-surgery. This helps prevent infection. After this initial period, follow your surgeon's specific instructions regarding when you can start getting the area wet.

2. Dressing Changes: You will likely have a bandage covering the surgical site. Keep this dressing clean and dry. If it becomes wet or soiled, change it as instructed by your healthcare provider. Use sterile materials to avoid introducing bacteria.

3. Pain Management: It’s normal to experience some pain and swelling after surgery. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter options. Follow the dosage instructions carefully and consult your doctor if the pain worsens or does not improve.

4. Elevation: To reduce swelling, keep your hand elevated above heart level as much as possible, especially in the first few days after surgery. This can help minimize swelling and promote healing.

Activity Restrictions
1. Avoid Water Exposure: As mentioned, avoid getting the surgical site wet for at least three days. After that, follow your doctor's advice regarding showering or bathing. Some surgeons recommend using a waterproof cover for the hand while bathing.

2. Limit Movement: Initially, you may need to limit the movement of your finger to allow for proper healing. Your doctor will provide guidance on when you can start gentle movements. Typically, you may be advised to start gentle range-of-motion exercises after a week or two, depending on your healing progress.

3. Return to Work: The timeline for returning to work can vary based on the nature of your job. If your work involves manual labor or repetitive hand movements, you may need to wait longer before resuming full activities. Discuss your specific situation with your surgeon to determine the best time to return.

Follow-Up Care
1. Suture Removal: If your surgery involved stitches, they will need to be removed after a certain period, usually around 7-14 days post-surgery. Your doctor will inform you when this will occur.

2. Physical Therapy: Depending on your recovery, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help regain strength and flexibility in your finger. This is particularly important if you experience stiffness or limited range of motion after surgery.

3. Signs of Complications: Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the surgical site. If you experience severe pain, fever, or any unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Conclusion
Post-trigger finger surgery care is essential for a successful recovery. Follow your surgeon's instructions closely regarding wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments. While the initial recovery may seem daunting, with proper care, you can expect to regain full function of your finger. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you may have during your recovery process. This proactive approach will help ensure the best possible outcome for your hand health.

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