Percutaneous Surgery for Trigger Finger Treatment Using a Novel Surgical Device: An Experimental Study on Fresh Cadavers

Abstract

Purpose

Trigger finger, a stenosing tenosynovitis of the flexor tendon at the A1 pulley, can cause pain and impair daily activities. Despite common surgical interventions, postsurgical complications are frequent, prompting the search for less invasive techniques.

Methods

An experimental study was conducted on fresh cadavers to compare three techniques: the first using a PulleyCut without ultrasound guidance, the second using a PulleyCut with ultrasound guidance, and the third using a percutaneous needle technique. The complete release of the A1 pulley, integrity of the A2 pulley, flexor tendons, and neurovascular bundles were assessed.

Results

The new device group and the ultrasound-guided group demonstrated 100% complete release of the A1 pulley, whereas the needle group achieved only 38% success. There were no A2 pulley injuries in any group. Flexor tendons were injured in 7% of cases in the new device group and 77% in the needle group. A neurovascular injury occurred in the needle group.

Conclusions

Compared with the percutaneous needle technique, the new device proved safe and effective for A1 pulley release, minimizing damage to flexor tendons and neurovascular structures. Ultrasound did not provide significant advantages, suggesting that the new device can be confidently used without ultrasound assistance. The PulleyCut represents a promising percutaneous technique for trigger finger treatment, demonstrating superiority over the needle technique in terms of efficacy and safety. These results encourage future clinical investigations to validate its practical application.

Type of study/level of evidence

Therapeutic IIc.