Abstract
Introduction The aim of the study was to estimate recurrence rates, time to recurrence, and predisposing
factors for recurrence of trigger finger when treated with corticosteroid (CS) injection
as primary treatment.
Materials and Methods In a retrospective chart review, we identified primary trigger fingers treated with
CS injection as primary treatment. Affected hand and finger, recurrence, time to recurrence,
duration of symptoms, secondary treatment type, and comorbidities were recorded. A
total of 539 patients were included with a mean follow-up of 47.6 months
Results In total, 330/539 (61%) recurrences were registered. Mean time to recurrence was
312 days. Increased risk of recurrence was seen after treatment of the third finger
(relative risk [RR]: 1.22; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06–1.39). Several comorbidities
were associated with increased risk of recurrence: carpal tunnel syndrome (RR: 1.27;
95% CI: 1.07–1.52), thyroid disease (RR: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.15–1.83), or shoulder diseases
(RR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.36–1.83).
Conclusion We found a recurrence rate after primary treatment of CS injection for trigger finger
of 61%. Most recurrences happened within 2 years and we found treatment of third finger,
carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder, or thyroid disease to be associated with an increased
risk of recurrence of symptoms.
Keywords
trigger finger - recurrence - primary treatment - cofactors
