Does Bowstringing Affect Hand Function in Patients Treated With A1 Pulley Release for Trigger Fingers?: Comparison Between Percutaneous Versus Open Technique

We aimed to inspect bowstringing after percutaneous and open release of the A1 pulley for trigger digits and its influence on hand function. Sixty-two patients with a resistant trigger digit were randomized to undergo either open release or percutaneous release of the A1 pulley. We quantified bowstringing of the digit using ultrasonography preoperatively and at 12 and 24 weeks after surgery. Pain on a visual analog scale; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire; pinch power; and grip strength were assessed. Bowstringing was significantly increased at 12 weeks after surgery in both groups, and the mean value of the open release group was significantly greater than that of the percutaneous group (2.30 ± 0.58 mm vs 1.46 ± 0.51 mm, respectively; P = 0.035). However, the bowstringing was decreased at 24 weeks without showing significant difference between the 2 groups. The clinical outcomes of each cohort improved significantly, with no difference between the groups at final follow-up. No association was found between bowstringing and any clinical outcome measure. Bowstringing occurred by A1 pulley release with either the percutaneous or open technique does not affect clinical hand function in patients with trigger fingers.