Partial flexor tendon laceration: a cause of trigger finger

Area of Science:

• Hand surgery
• Orthopedic surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Trigger finger is a common condition affecting finger flexion.
• Partial lacerations of flexor tendons are an uncommon cause of trigger finger.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for optimal outcomes.

Discussion:

• The mechanism involves a frayed tendon edge or "tag" catching within the tendon sheath.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate surgical intervention.
• Excision of the problematic tendon fragment addresses the mechanical obstruction directly.

Key Insights:

• Four cases of trigger finger secondary to partial flexor tendon laceration are presented.
• Affected tendons included one profundus and three superficialis.
• Patients were males and females aged 13–36 years.

Outlook:

• Surgical management via "tag" excision offers a high success rate for this specific etiology.
• Further research could explore preventative strategies or long-term outcomes.
• This case series highlights an important, albeit uncommon, cause of trigger finger in surgical practice.