Publication Date
11-1-2023
Journal
HAND
DOI
10.1177/15589447221093676
PMID
35656857
PMCID
PMC10617481
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
6-3-2022
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
Humans, Trigger Finger Disorder, Injections, Tendons, Fingers, Cadaver
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Stenosing flexor tenosynovitis is commonly treated by injection of corticosteroids into the flexor tendon sheath. However, there is no consensus in the literature regarding the optimal technique, specifically when not utilizing ultrasound guidance. Here, we present a cadaver study in which 3 common techniques of flexor sheath injection were compared with regard to their accuracy and safety profiles.
METHODS: Fifteen fresh-frozen cadaver hands (60 digits) were evenly divided into 3 groups (20 digits per group). Digits in each group were injected with methylene blue dye using 1 of the 3 techniques (palmar-to-bone, palmar supra-tendinous, and mid-axial). The fingers were then dissected and were inspected for location of dye, as well as injury to tendon or digital nerves.
RESULTS: The mid-axial technique demonstrated the greatest accuracy with the highest rate of all intra-sheath injection, 15 of 20 digits (75%), while the palmar-to-bone technique produced the most combined intra- and extra-sheath injections, 13 of 20 digits, (65%) and the palmar supra-tendinous technique resulted in the most all extra-sheath injections, 9 of 20 digits (45%). The difference in rates of all intra-sheath injection was significant (
CONCLUSIONS: Compared to other common non-image guided flexor tendon sheath injection techniques, the mid-axial injection technique was found to be the most accurate in producing all intra-sheath injection and least likely to result in intra-tendinous injection.