Predictors of Recurrence After Corticosteroid Injection for Trigger Digits

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Hand Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Trigger digit (stenosing tenosynovitis) is a common condition affecting the hand.
• Corticosteroid injection is a primary non-surgical treatment option.
• Identifying factors influencing treatment success is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine risk factors associated with trigger digit recurrence after corticosteroid injection.
• To evaluate the efficacy of corticosteroid injections in patients with and without diabetes mellitus.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patients aged 18+ with symptomatic trigger digit treated by a hand surgeon.
• Analysis of demographic data and treatment outcomes (injection vs. surgery).
• Multivariate regression analysis to identify significant risk factors for surgical release.

Main Results:

• Overall success rate of corticosteroid injection was 84%, with 16% requiring surgery.
• 41% of successfully injected patients needed a second injection.
• Older patient age and injection of the fourth digit of the right hand were significant risk factors for requiring surgical release. Diabetes mellitus was not a risk factor for persistent triggering.

Conclusions:

• Corticosteroid injections are effective for trigger digits, regardless of diabetes status.
• Patient age and specific digit injected can help predict the need for surgical intervention.
• Findings aid in pre-injection patient counseling regarding potential outcomes.