Trigger finger: assessment of surgeon and patient preferences and priorities for decision making

To test the null hypothesis that there are no differences in the priorities and preferences of patients with idiopathic trigger finger (TF) and hand surgeons.

One hundred five hand surgeons of the Science of Variation Group and 84 patients with TF completed a survey about their priorities and preferences in decision making regarding the management of TF. The questionnaire was structured according the Ottawa Decision Support Framework for the development of a decision aid.

Patients desired orthotics more and surgery less than physicians. Patients and physicians disagreed on the main advantage of several treatment options for TFs and on disadvantages of the treatment options. Patients preferred to decide for themselves after receiving advice, whereas physicians preferred a shared decision. Patients preferred booklets, and physicians opted for Internet and video decision aids.

Comparing patients and hand surgeons, there were some differences in treatment preferences and perceived advantages and disadvantages regarding idiopathic TF-differences that might be addressed by a decision aid.

Information that helps inform patients of their options based on current best evidence might help them understand their own preferences and values, reduce decisional conflict, limit surgeon-to-surgeon variations, and improve health.