Ultrasound-guided injection of a corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid: a potential new approach to the treatment of trigger finger

Ultrasound guided versus blinded injection in trigger finger treatment: a prospective controlled study

BACKGROUND

Trigger finger is a common disease with a lifetime prevalence of 2%. One of the frequently preferred non-surgical treatments is blinded injection around the A1 pulley. This study aims to compare the clinical results of ultrasound-guided and blinded corticosteroid injection in the trigger finger.

METHODS

In this prospective clinical study, 66 patients who had persistent symptoms of a single trigger finger were included. Patients with similar baseline characteristics such as age, gender, triggering period, and comorbidities were randomized. 34 patients had ultrasound-guided (UG), and 32 had blinded injections (BG). QDASH, VAS, time to return to work, and complications were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

The mean age was 52,66 (29-73) years. There were 18 male and 48 female patients. In the UG, the triggering resolved faster, returning to work was earlier, and the medication period was shorter (p < 0.05). A total of 17 patients who had diabetes mellitus received re-injections, 11 of which were in BG and 6 in UG (p < 0.05). Although statistically significantly lower scores were obtained in UG at the 1st and 4th weeks in the QDASH and VAS scores (p < 0.05), at the 12th and 24 weeks, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Using ultrasound guidance for corticosteroid injections is more effective for treating trigger fingers than the blinded method, leading to better results and a faster return to work in the early stages of treatment.

Ultrasound-Guided A1 Pulley Release Versus Classic Open Surgery for Trigger Digit: A Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

We compared an ultra-minimally invasive ultrasound-guided percutaneous A1 pulley release and a classic open surgery for trigger digit.

METHODS

We designed a single-center randomized control trial. All cases had clinical signs of primary grade III trigger digit. Concealed allocation (1:1) was used for assigning patients to each group and data collectors were blinded. The Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick-DASH) questionnaire was our primary variable. Quick-DASH, two-point discrimination, grip strength, time until stopping analgesics, having full digital range of motion and restarting everyday activities were registered on the 1st, 3rd, and 6th weeks, 3rd and 6th months, and 1st year after the procedure.

RESULTS

We randomized 84 patients to ultrasound-guided release and classic open surgery. Quick-DASH scores significantly favored the percutaneous technique until the 3rd month: 7.6 ± 1.2 versus 15.3 ± 2.4 (mean ± standard error of the mean). The percutaneous group obtained significantly better results in all the variables studied: time until stopping analgesics, achieving full range of motion and restarting everyday activities. Grip strength was significantly better in the percutaneous group for the 1st week only. Five cases of moderate local pain were observed in the open technique. There was one case of transient nerve numbness per group.

CONCLUSIONS

The ultra-minimally invasive ultrasound-guided A1 pulley release was clinically superior to the classic open surgery in functional recovery with a lower complication rate.

Morphometric study of percutaneous A1 pulley of thumb release

Through anatomy, microscope, histopathology, and simulating needle knife operation on specimens, to accumulate the relevant parameters of the A1 pulley of thumb, and to provide an anatomical evidence for the needle knife therapy of stenosing flexor tenosynovitis. A total of 20 fingers were selected from 20 intact adult upper limb specimens, a small amount of emerald green waterproof dye was injected from the needle insertion point, dissected layer by layer, and the A1 pulley and neurovascular bundle were observed. Observe the loosening of the thumb A1 pulley after 5 and 10 times of simulated needle knife cutting on the specimen; observe the relationship between the needle knife entry point and the A1 pulley under the thumb extension and abduction, and the thumb extension neutral position respectively; further observe the histological characteristics, and the relationship between needle entry point and A1 pulley by microscope. ① In general observation, the A1 pulleys of each finger were transverse fibers perpendicular to the flexor tendon, tough in texture, connected with synovial fibers at the proximal end. It is difficult to distinguish, and connected with oblique fibers at the distal end. ② The release rate of the thumb A1 pulley after 5 and 10 times of simulated needle knife cutting on the specimen were (40.46 ± 2.22)% and (63.52 ± 4.49)%, respectively. ③ In the neutral position of the thumb straightening, the needle entry point is 3.06 ± 0.14 mm from the proximal side of the proximal edge of the A1 pulley, which overlaps with the needle entry point where the thumb is straight and abducted. ④ Observed under a microscope, the A1 pulley is a dense transverse fiber with a pale yellow dense connective tissue, both ends are continuous with the synovial fibers. It is thin and translucent, and loose connective tissue. The A1 pulley is a dense transverse fiber with a pale yellow dense connective tissue. The anatomical key points of the needle knife therapy lie in the extended and abducted position of the thumb. Currently, it is believed that cutting the proximal edge of the A1 pulley is sufficient, and there is no need to cut the entire A1 pulley.

Complications and Functional Outcomes following Trigger Finger Release: A Cohort Study of 1879 Patients

BACKGROUND

Although trigger finger release is considered a safe procedure, large cohort studies reporting consistent complication rates and functional outcomes are scarce. Further insight into outcomes of this commonly performed procedure is essential for adequate treatment evaluation and patient counseling. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the complication rates and functional outcomes following trigger finger release.

METHODS

This is an observational multicenter cohort study of patients undergoing trigger finger release. The primary outcome included the occurrence of complications. The secondary outcome was change in hand function (Michigan Hand outcomes Questionnaire) from baseline to 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Complications were observed in 17.1 percent of 1879 patients. Most complications were minor, requiring hand therapy or analgesics (7.0 percent of all patients), antibiotics, or steroid injections (7.8 percent). However, 2.1 percent required surgical treatment and 0.2 percent developed complex regional pain syndrome. The Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire total score improved from baseline to 3 months postoperatively with 12.7 points, although the authors found considerable variation in outcomes with less improvement in patients with better baseline scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that trigger finger release results in improved hand function, although complications occur in 17 percent. Most complications are minor and can be treated with nonsurgical therapy, resulting in improved hand function as well. However, additional surgical treatment is required in 2 percent of patients. In addition, the authors found that change in hand function depends on the baseline score, with less improvement in patients with better baseline scores. Future studies should investigate factors that contribute to the variability in treatment outcomes following trigger finger release.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

Hyaluronic acid in the treatment of osteoarthritis of various localization: A review

The article discusses the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA), the prevalence of which is high, and according to some forecasts it will increase by 50% in the next 20 years. The authors emphasize the high comorbidity among patients suffering from OA and high cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks with frequent use of NSAIDs, the volume of consumption of which is constantly increasing. Discussing recommendations for the treatment of patients with OA, the article focuses on the use of hyaluronic acid (HA) preparations in the treatment of OA. The mechanisms of anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective actions of HA in the joint, its effect on cartilage and synovial membrane are discussed. Attention is drawn to the fact that, despite more than 30 years of experience in the effective use of HA preparations in the treatment of OA, this procedure is still a subject of controversy among international professional communities. The article presents data from meta-analyses and systematic reviews confirming the effectiveness of the use of intra-articular management of HA preparations in OA of various localization (knee joints, hip joints, hand joints). In conclusion, the recommendations of the technical expert group established at the International Symposium on Intra-Articular Treatment are given to determine the criteria for the successful administration of HA in OA of various localizations, as well as predictors of success and non-success of therapy with HA drugs. The experts identified indications, contraindications for intra-articular administration of HA preparations, as well as conditions associated with an increased risk of therapy failure. In conclusion, the authors draw conclusions about the importance of using HA preparations for intra-articular administration for the treatment of OA, starting from the early stages, following the recommendations of experts.

Effects of hyaluronic acid injections on pain and functioning in patients affected by tendinopathies: A narrative review

BACKGROUND

Tendinopathies are overuse tendon injuries showing load-dependant pain, stiffness, weakness of movement in the affected area, and impairment in the movements. The scientific interest on the role of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) for the management of tendinopathies has been increased due to its anti-inflammatory and lubricative properties.

OBJECTIVE

To collect evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of HA injections in reducing pain in patients affected by tendinopathies.

METHODS

A scientific literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Medline and PEDro electronic databases. The databases were searched since their inception until July 2021. The search was limited to English language articles. Different combinations of the terms and MeSH terms "tendinopathy", "tendinosis", "tendinitis", "hyaluronic acid", "hyaluronate", "infiltration", "hyaluronic injections", "viscosupplementation" connected with various boolean operators were used for other electronic databases.

RESULTS

One hundred and one records were identified from the selected databases plus three additional papers identified by the authors through other sources. After removing duplicated papers and title/abstract screening, 19 studies were included in our review (eight papers on shoulder, three on elbow, four on hand, one on knee, and three on ankle).

CONCLUSION

The results showed that none of the studies report severe adverse effects and most of them support the use of HA injections in tendinopathies, with a special attention to pain reduction and functional assessment. Further studies are warranted to better investigate effects and methods of administration of HA in tendinopathies.

Factors associated with self-reported pain and hand function following surgical A1 pulley release

Surgical A1 pulley release can considerably reduce pain and improve hand function, but individual outcomes are highly variable. This study aimed to identify factors contributing to self-reported pain and hand function 3 months postoperatively. We included 2681 patients who had received surgical treatment for a trigger finger or thumb and who completed the Michigan Hand outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ). Hierarchical linear regression models were used to investigate patient and clinical characteristics associated with postoperative pain and hand function. For both pain and hand function, the most influential factors associated with worse outcomes were worse MHQ scores at baseline (β 0.38 and 0.33, respectively) and ≥3 preoperative steroid injections (β -0.36 and -0.35). These factors indicated that patients with severe preoperative symptoms represent a group with a more advanced disease that is more difficult to treat. These findings can assist clinicians in patient counselling, expectation management and decision-making about the timing of the intervention.Level of evidence: II.

Nonoperative Treatment of Finger Flexor Tenosynovitis in Sport Climbers—A Retrospective Descriptive Study Based on a Clinical 10-Year Database

Simple Summary

Finger flexor tenosynovitis is among the most frequent overuse injuries in sport climbers. Targeted therapy is currently based mostly on reports of the anecdotal practical experience of single centers rather than scientific investigations, as there is very little research available on this pathology. The aim of this study was to describe the nonoperative treatment outcomes of finger flexor tenosynovitis treatments in sport climbers by retrospectively asking patients about injury triggers, therapy contents and outcomes. All patients were initially treated conservatively, and only one of the patients needed further therapy in the form of a single injection with hyaluronic acid; none of them underwent further operative treatment. The average symptom duration was 30.5 weeks, and all patients were able to resume climbing, with approximately 75% of them regaining or exceeding their initial climbing level. These good to excellent outcomes and no correlation between particular therapy contents and therapy outcome suggest that finger flexor tenosynovitis in sport climbers has a favorable natural course without requiring invasive therapy. However, further cohort studies and, ultimately, randomized controlled trials are needed to conclusively confirm our promising observations from this study.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the nonoperative treatment outcomes of finger flexor tenosynovitis in sport climbers and to evaluate the association with baseline measures and therapy contents. Sixty-five sport climbers (49 males, mean age 34.1 years) diagnosed with tenosynovitis of the finger flexors were retrospectively asked about injury triggers, therapy contents and outcomes. Pulley thickness was measured by ultrasound. All patients were initially treated conservatively, and only one of the patients needed further therapy (single injection with hyaluronic acid); none of them underwent surgical treatment. The most frequently applied therapy was climbing-related load reduction (91%). The treatment resulted in a statistically significant reduction in pain intensity during climbing (before/after therapy ratio [Visual Analog Scale (VAS)/VAS] = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.55, 0.68). The average duration of the symptoms was 30.5 weeks (range 1–120 weeks). In a multiple linear regression analysis, initial daily life pain intensity and a climbing level higher than 7b according to the French/sport grading scale were the only predictive parameters for the relative change in pain intensity and symptom duration, respectively. All patients were able to resume climbing, with 75% regaining or even exceeding their initial climbing level. The good to excellent outcomes and no correlation between particular therapy contents and therapy outcome may suggest that finger flexor tenosynovitis in sport climbers has a favorable natural course without requiring invasive therapy. However, further cohort studies and, ultimately, randomized controlled trials are needed to conclusively confirm our promising observations.

The Emerging Era of Interventional Imaging in Rheumatology: An Overview During the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic

Imaging has long been taking its place in the diagnosis, monitor, and prognosis of rheumatic diseases. It plays a vital role in the appraisal of treatment. Key progress in the clinical practice of rheumatology is the innovation of advanced imaging modalities; such as musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS), computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These modalities introduced a promising noninvasive method for visualizing bone and soft tissues to enable an improved diagnosis. The use of MSUS in rheumatology is considered a landmark in the evolution of the specialty and its ease of use and many applications in rheumatic diseases make it a forerunner instrument in the practice. The use of MSUS among rheumatologists must parallel the development rate of the excellence revealed in the specialty. Moreover, innovative interventional imaging in rheumatology (III-R) is gaining fame and key roles in the near future for a comprehensive management of rheumatic diseases with precision. This review article throws light on the emergence of these robust innovations that may reshape the guidelines and practice in rheumatology, in particular, efforts to enhance best practice during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic are endorsed.

Systematic Literature Review and Expert Opinion for the Use of Viscosupplementation with Hyaluronic Acid in Different Localizations of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a significant cause of disability. Considering the increasing diffusion of the viscosupplementation (VS) with hyaluronic acid (HA), the International Symposium Intra Articular Treatment (ISIAT) appointed a Technical Expert Panel (TEP) to identify the criteria for successful VS with a specific HA in OA; this through a systematic literature review (SLR), performed following the PRISMA guidelines interrogating Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Grey Matters and American College of Rheumatology (ACR/EULAR) databases and the opinion of international experts. The research included only studies on adults and humans without limitations of language or time of publication. Researchers extracted both quantitative and qualitative data from each study. Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to perform quality analysis for the level of evidence. The SLR retrieved 385 papers, 25 of which were suitable for the analysis. The TEP focused on the different formulations of the product Sinovial^® [HA 0.8%, HA 1.6%, HA 2%, 800–1200 kDa, HA 3.2% (1400–2100 kDa/65–110 kDa)]. The choice was due to the vast amount of evidence available. The TEP weighed the evidence in two rounds of a Delphi survey; the results, and any disagreement, were discussed in a final session. Three domains were considered: 1) the patients’ characteristics associated with the best results; 2) the contraindications and the conditions linked to increased risk of failure; 3) the clinical conditions in which VS is considered appropriate. The TEP concluded that VS with HA is safe and effective in the treatment of knee and hip OA of grades I to III and that it is possible to undertake VS in other situations (eg grade IV Kellgren-Lawrence – KL); a comprehensive examination of the patient should be performed before the procedure.

Diagnostic imaging features, cytological examination, and treatment of lymphocytic tenosynovitis of the common digital extensor tendon sheath in an eventing horse

•

Dorsal aspect of carpus is susceptible to injury due to it superficial location.

•

Horse is diagnosed with lymphocytic tenosynovitis of common digital extensor tendon.

•

Lymphocytic tenosynovitis of common digital extensor tendon is uncommon in horse.

•

Radiography and ultrasonography are useful for structural defect investigation.

•

Cytology is required complementary to the imaging for selection of treatment plan.

In horses, the structures at the dorsal aspect of the carpus, including the digital extensor tendons, their related tendon sheaths, and bones, are vulnerable to injury because of their superficial location. Injuries to these structures may result in lameness of the affected limb(s) and reduce a horse's athletic performance. A 13-year-old eventing horse that routinely underwent regular exercise exhibited dorsolateral distension of the right carpus. An effusion insensitive to compression was observed in the affected area. No lameness was detected, and the horse exhibited a negative response to the carpal flexion test. Although radiography revealed no abnormal findings in the carpal bones, ultrasonography depicted anechoic fluid and synovial cell proliferation within the common digital extensor tendon sheath. Cytological analysis of the fluid revealed numerous lymphocytes and increased proteinaceous background, suggesting lymphocytic tenosynovitis. The effusion resolved following administration of two intrathecal injections: one injection of corticosteroid combined with hyaluronic acid (HA), and one injection of HA alone. Two weeks after administration of the second injection, daily under-saddle exercise was initiated, consisting of walking and light trotting with a gradual increase in intensity. The horse returned to its habitual intensive training program six weeks following the final injection. In conclusion, the horse was diagnosed with lymphocytic tenosynovitis of the common digital extensor tendon; successful treatment was achieved with administration of corticosteroid and HA. Diagnostic imaging and cytological examination facilitated clinical interpretation and the selection of an appropriate treatment regimen.

Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal interventional procedures around the elbow, hand and wrist excluding carpal tunnel procedures

Ultrasound is a fast, reliable and radiation-free method for the assessment of a wide range of pathological conditions, as well as for the guidance of percutaneous interventional procedures around the elbow, hand and wrist. Intraarticular and periarticular interventional procedures can be easily performed under continuous ultrasound monitoring to ensure correct needle positioning and medication delivery to a specific target. The most common ultrasound-guided procedures performed around the elbow, wrist, and hand are described in this review, excluding carpal tunnel procedures. Specifically, elbow steroid injections are performed in patients with inflammatory disorders, while hyaluronic acid can be administered in case of osteoarthritis. Septic olecranon bursitis requires percutaneous drainage for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Dry needling and injection of regenerative medications, such as blood derivatives, are among the treatment options for lateral epicondylosis. Steroid injections are performed to give symptom relief in patients with ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. Hand and wrist steroid injections are performed in case of osteoarthritis, subsequently followed by hyaluronic acid injections, and in inflammatory disorders. Wrist ganglia can be safely aspirated and injected with steroids under ultrasound guidance. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis and trigger finger are chronic tenosynovitides of the wrist and digits, respectively, which can be treated with steroid injections, subsequently followed by hyaluronic acid injections. In conclusion, proper knowledge of the musculoskeletal disorders around the elbow, hand and wrist, as well as US-guided treatment options and operator training, are prerequisites to achieve good outcomes.

Efficacy Comparison of Hyaluronic Acid and Corticosteroid Injection in Treatment of Trigger Digits: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Although the current nonsurgical treatment for trigger digits is corticosteroid (CS) injection, it often comes with adverse effects that may cause some limitations. Currently, Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been successfully used in tendinopathy and may be used in stenosing tenosynovitis. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of ultrasound-guided injection between the HA and CS in trigger digits treatment. Methods: Double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. Fifty patients with 66 trigger digits were randomly assigned into an intervention group (1 ml of low-molecular weight HA) and a control group (1 ml of 10mg/ml triamcinolone acetate). The ultrasound-guided injection and local anesthesia (0.5 ml of 1% lidocaine without adrenaline) were used. The Quinnell grading, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score of pain, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and complications were collected at 1-, 3-and 6-month follow-up. Results: The mean age of HA group (33 digits) and CS group (33 digits) were 58.3 years and 54.7 years respectively. Nine patients were loss of follow-up (7 in HA group and 2 in CS group). The Quinnell grades have shown an improvement in both group. The CS group had a significant better improvement at 1-month (p-value < 0.001) and there was no significant difference at 3-and 6-month follow-up between the two groups. The median of VAS and DASH score were significantly improved by time in both groups (p-value < 0.01). The CS group showed a better significant improvement in early period of follow-up (p-value < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the last follow-up. Conclusions: HA and CS injection has a comparable therapeutic effect in treatment of trigger digits. However, CS injection has higher efficacy of pain and inflammation reduction in the early phase of the disease.

Effectiveness of Amniotic Fluid Injection in the Treatment of Trigger Finger: A Pilot Study

Purpose

To assess the efficacy and safety of amniotic fluid therapy injections in patients with mild to moderate trigger finger.

Methods

All participants received 1 mL of amniotic fluid injected into the tendon sheath of the affected tendon. Pretreatment and posttreatment data were collected for triggering frequency, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire scores, and numerical pain rating scale scores.

Results

Of 111 digits from 96 patients, 51% experienced clinically notable improvement and did not receive an alternative treatment. Average length of follow-up was 11 months. From baseline to end of follow-up, average pain score (0–10) decreased from 5.19 to 1.19 (P < .001), median triggering per day decreased from 5 to 0 (P < .001), and median DASH score (1–100) decreased from 20 to 6.03 (P < .001). There was a 50% success rate in patients with diabetes and a 52.6% success rate in digits diagnosed with concomitant Dupuytren contracture in the same hand.

Conclusions

Amniotic fluid therapy injections may offer a biologic alternative for conservative treatment of trigger finger, particularly for patients with diabetes. Decreased pain, decreased triggering, and improved DASH scores offer preliminary evidence supporting the use of amniotic injections for stenosing tenosynovitis.

Type of study/level of evidence

Therapeutic IV.

Clinical indications for image-guided interventional procedures in the musculoskeletal system: a Delphi-based consensus paper from the European Society of Musculoskeletal Radiology (ESSR)-Part II, elbow and wrist

BACKGROUND

Although image-guided interventional procedures of the elbow and wrist are routinely performed, there is poor evidence in the literature concerning such treatments. Our aim was to perform a Delphi-based consensus on published evidence on image-guided interventional procedures around the elbow and wrist and provide clinical indications on this topic.

METHODS

A board of 45 experts in image-guided interventional musculoskeletal procedures from the European Society of Musculoskeletal Radiology were involved in this Delphi-based consensus study. All panelists reviewed and scored published papers on image-guided interventional procedures around the elbow and wrist updated to September 2018 according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine levels of evidence. Consensus on statements drafted by the panelists about clinical indications was considered as "strong" when more than 95% of panelists agreed and as "broad" if more than 80% agreed.

RESULTS

Eighteen statements were drafted, 12 about tendon procedures and 6 about intra-articular procedures. Only statement #15 reached the highest level of evidence (ultrasound-guided steroid wrist injections result in greater pain reduction and greater likelihood of attaining clinically important improvement). Seventeen statements received strong consensus (94%), while one received broad consensus (6%).

CONCLUSIONS

There is still poor evidence in published papers on image-guided interventional procedures around the elbow and wrist. A strong consensus has been achieved in 17/18 (94%) statements provided by the panel on clinical indications. Large prospective randomized trials are needed to better define the role of these procedures in clinical practice.

KEY POINTS

• The panel provided 18 evidence-based statements on clinical indications of image-guided interventional procedures around the elbow and wrist. • Only statement #15 reached the highest level of evidence: ultrasound-guided steroid wrist injections result in greater pain reduction and greater likelihood of attaining clinically important improvement. • Seventeen statements received strong consensus (94%), while broad consensus was obtained by 1 statement (6%).

Ultrasound Features of Trigger Finger: Review of the Literature

Trigger finger is a common pathologic condition of the digital pulleys and flexor tendons in the hand. The key clinical finding is a transient blockage of the digit when it is flexed with subsequent painful snapping when it is extended. Imaging is a helpful guide for establishing the severity of the disease, identifying the underlying cause, and deciding the appropriate management. This narrative review aims to recall the anatomic and pathologic bases and describe the ultrasound features of trigger finger, also including common ultrasound findings and complications after therapy. Ultrasound enables an accurate static and dynamic evaluation of trigger finger as well as a comparison with the adjacent normal digits and thus should be considered the radiologic modality of first choice for its diagnosis.

Upper Limb Interventions

Ultrasound has been reported to be a quick, cheap, and effective imaging modality to guide the interventional procedures in the musculoskeletal system. The use of ultrasound results in increased accuracy of needle placement associated with a reduction of complications. In the upper limb, ultrasound-guided procedures are applied to joints and soft tissues around the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand. This article reviews the clinical and technical aspects of the most common procedures performed in this anatomic area.

Interventional therapeutic procedures to treat degenerative and inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions: state of the art

Imaging-guided interventional procedures have become increasingly popular in the treatment of several pathologic conditions in the musculoskeletal system. Besides oncological treatments, musculoskeletal procedures can be performed to treat different degenerative or inflammatory conditions. This paper is aimed to review clinical indications and technical aspects of these kinds of procedures. In particular, we revise the general aspects common to most procedures and the different imaging-guided interventions which can be performed around joints, soft tissues, and spine.

Surgery for trigger finger

BACKGROUND

Trigger finger is a common clinical disorder, characterised by pain and catching as the patient flexes and extends digits because of disproportion between the diameter of flexor tendons and the A1 pulley. The treatment approach may include non-surgical or surgical treatments. Currently there is no consensus about the best surgical treatment approach (open, percutaneous or endoscopic approaches).

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of different methods of surgical treatment for trigger finger (open, percutaneous or endoscopic approaches) in adults at any stage of the disease.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and LILACS up to August 2017.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed adults with trigger finger and compared any type of surgical treatment with each other or with any other non-surgical intervention. The major outcomes were the resolution of trigger finger, pain, hand function, participant-reported treatment success or satisfaction, recurrence of triggering, adverse events and neurovascular injury.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected the trial reports, extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias. Measures of treatment effect for dichotomous outcomes calculated risk ratios (RRs), and mean differences (MDs) or standardised mean differences (SMD) for continuous outcomes, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). When possible, the data were pooled into meta-analysis using the random-effects model. GRADE was used to assess the quality of evidence for each outcome.

MAIN RESULTS

Fourteen trials were included, totalling 1260 participants, with 1361 trigger fingers. The age of participants included in the studies ranged from 16 to 88 years; and the majority of participants were women (approximately 70%). The average duration of symptoms ranged from three to 15 months, and the follow-up after the procedure ranged from eight weeks to 23 months.The studies reported nine types of comparisons: open surgery versus steroid injections (two studies); percutaneous surgery versus steroid injection (five studies); open surgery versus steroid injection plus ultrasound-guided hyaluronic acid injection (one study); percutaneous surgery plus steroid injection versus steroid injection (one study); percutaneous surgery versus open surgery (five studies); endoscopic surgery versus open surgery (one study); and three comparisons of types of incision for open surgery (transverse incision of the skin in the distal palmar crease, transverse incision of the skin about 2-3 mm distally from distal palmar crease, and longitudinal incision of the skin) (one study).Most studies had significant methodological flaws and were considered at high or unclear risk of selection bias, performance bias, detection bias and reporting bias. The primary comparison was open surgery versus steroid injections, because open surgery is the oldest and the most widely used treatment method and considered as standard surgery, whereas steroid injection is the least invasive control treatment method as reported in the studies in this review and is often used as first-line treatment in clinical practice.Compared with steroid injection, there was low-quality evidence that open surgery provides benefits with respect to less triggering recurrence, although it has the disadvantage of being more painful. Evidence was downgraded due to study design flaws and imprecision.Based on two trials (270 participants) from six up to 12 months, 50/130 (or 385 per 1000) individuals had recurrence of trigger finger in the steroid injection group compared with 8/140 (or 65 per 1000; range 35 to 127) in the open surgery group, RR 0.17 (95% CI 0.09 to 0.33), for an absolute risk difference that 29% fewer people had recurrence of symptoms with open surgery (60% fewer to 3% more individuals); relative change translates to improvement of 83% in the open surgery group (67% to 91% better).At one week, 9/49 (184 per 1000) people had pain on the palm of the hand in the steroid injection group compared with 38/56 (or 678 per 1000; ranging from 366 to 1000) in the open surgery group, RR 3.69 (95% CI 1.99 to 6.85), for an absolute risk difference that 49% more had pain with open surgery (33% to 66% more); relative change translates to worsening of 269% (585% to 99% worse) (one trial, 105 participants).Because of very low quality evidence from two trials we are uncertain whether open surgery improve resolution of trigger finger in the follow-up at six to 12 months, when compared with steroid injection (131/140 observed in the open surgery group compared with 80/130 in the control group; RR 1.48, 95% CI 0.79 to 2.76); evidence was downgraded due to study design flaws, inconsistency and imprecision. Low-quality evidence from two trials and few event rates (270 participants) from six up to 12 months of follow-up, we are uncertain whether open surgery increased the risk of adverse events (incidence of infection, tendon injury, flare, cutaneous discomfort and fat necrosis) (18/140 observed in the open surgery group compared with 17/130 in the control group; RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.84) and neurovascular injury (9/140 observed in the open surgery group compared with 4/130 in the control group; RR 2.17, 95% CI 0.7 to 6.77). Twelve participants (8 versus 4) did not complete the follow-up, and it was considered that they did not have a positive outcome in the data analysis. We are uncertain whether open surgery was more effective than steroid injection in improving hand function or participant satisfaction as studies did not report these outcomes.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Low-quality evidence indicates that, compared with steroid injection, open surgical treatment in people with trigger finger, may result in a less recurrence rate from six up to 12 months following the treatment, although it increases the incidence of pain during the first follow-up week. We are uncertain about the effect of open surgery with regard to the resolution rate in follow-up at six to 12 months, compared with steroid injections, due high heterogeneity and few events occurred in the trials; we are uncertain too about the risk of adverse events and neurovascular injury because of a few events occurred in the studies. Hand function or participant satisfaction were not reported.

Intra-sheath versus extra-sheath ultrasound guided corticosteroid injection for trigger finger: a triple blinded randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to compare clinical results of ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection, intra-sheath versus extra-sheath of the finger flexor tendon.

METHODS

A total of 166 patients with trigger finger were evaluated in a triple blind randomized clinical trial study. All the patients were injected with 1ml of 40mg/ml methyl prednisolone acetate, under the guidance of ultrasound. Half the patients were injected extra sheath, while the other half were injected intra sheath at the level of first annular pulley.

RESULTS

The two groups were comparable in baseline characteristics (age, gender, dominant hand, involved hand and finger, and the symptoms duration). No significant difference was observed in the two groups with regards to Quinnell grading. In the final visit, 94% of patients from each group were symptom free.

CONCLUSION

Results of corticosteroid injection intra-sheath or extra-sheath of the finger flexor tendon under ultrasound guidance in patients with trigger finger are comparably alike. Extra-sheath injection at the level of A1 pulley is as effective as an Intra-sheath administration.

Clinical benefits and drawbacks of local corticosteroids injections in tendinopathies

INTRODUCTION

local glucocorticoids injections are widely administered for the treatment of tendinopathies. positive results have been observed in some tendinopathies but not in others. moreover, worsening of symptoms, and even spontaneous tendon ruptures has been reported. the characteristics of the tendinopathies, the clinical peculiarities of the patient, and the technique used to administer glucocorticoids, can influence the therapeutic response. Areas covered: After reviewing the pertinent literature on the clinical results, basic information, both on the pathogenesis of tendinopathies and the effects of glucocorticoids on tendons, is reported. The pharmacological properties of glucocorticoids are useful to counteract some pathogenetic mechanisms of tendinopathies. However, several experimental studies suggest that the direct action of glucocorticoids on tendons is detrimental. Loss of collagen organization, impaired viability of fibroblasts, depletion of stem cells pool, and reduced mechanical properties have been observed. Expert opinion: Drawbacks of local glucocorticoids injections could be predicted on an individual basis, after a careful appraisal of patient characteristics and concomitant medications, along with the specific stage of tendon disease.

Ultrasound-guided procedures in rheumatology. What is the evidence?

Ultrasound (US) is a cost-effective, noninvasive, and accessible imaging modality that clinicians use at the point of care to assess disease activity and therapeutic efficacy in different rheumatic conditions. It can play a relevant role in invasive procedures performed by the rheumatologist, potentially ensuring a higher degree of accuracy. However, US-guided injections are still underused, and the conventional blind injection the most commonly adopted approach. In this article, we analyze the current evidence supporting the use of US-guided procedures, emphasizing comparative studies between conventional and US-guided procedures and their benefits in the daily rheumatological practice.

Ultrasound-Guided Hyaluronic Acid Injections for Trigger Finger: A Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of ultrasound-guided injections of hyaluronic acid (HA) versus steroid for trigger fingers in adults.

DESIGN

Prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled study.

SETTING

Tertiary care center.

PARTICIPANTS

Subjects with a diagnosis of trigger finger (N=36; 39 affected digits) received treatment and were evaluated.

INTERVENTIONS

Subjects were randomly assigned to HA and steroid injection groups. Both study medications were injected separately via ultrasound guidance with 1 injection.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The classification of trigger grading, pain, functional disability, and patient satisfaction were evaluated before the injection and 3 weeks and 3 months after the injection.

RESULTS

At 3 months, 12 patients (66.7%) in the HA group and 17 patients (89.5%) in the steroid group exhibited no triggering of the affected fingers (P=.124). The treatment results at 3 weeks and 3 months showed similar changes in the Quinnell scale (P=.057 and .931, respectively). A statistically significant interaction effect between group and time was found for visual analog scale (VAS) and Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ) evaluation (P<.05). The steroid group had a lower VAS at 3 months after injection (steroid 0.5±1.1 vs HA 2.7±2.4; P<.001). The HA group demonstrated continuing significant improvement in MHQ at 3 months (change from 3wk: steroid -2.6±14.1 vs HA 19.1±37.0; P=.023; d=.78).

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided injection of HA demonstrated promising results for the treatment of trigger fingers. The optimal frequency, dosage, and molecular weight of HA injections for trigger fingers deserve further investigation for future clinical applications.

Corticosteroid injection for trigger finger: blinded or ultrasound-guided injection?

INTRODUCTION

Trigger digit is one of the most common causes of pain and disability in the hand. The mainstay of conservative treatment of this disease has been local steroid injection into the tendon sheath. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical benefit of an ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection compared to a blinded application.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

74 patients, who suffered from persistent or increasing symptoms of a single trigger digit, were enroled in this prospective, randomised case-control study. All patients were treated with an injection of 40 mg/1 ml methylprednisolone acetate into the flexor tendon sheath at the level of the A1 pulley. Half of the patients had their injections under ultrasound control (USG) and half without (blinded injection group, BIG). Associated metabolic diseases were recorded. At the 6-week and 6-month follow-up examinations, the complication rate and the need for a second injection were assessed. The outcome was rated using the Quinnell grading. The pain level was assessed using the visual analogue scale.

RESULTS

Four patients were excluded due to lack of follow-up. Both study groups were comparable in respect of age, hand dominance and associated diseases. There were significantly more female patients in the USG group (32 versus 23 %). After the corticosteroid injections, all patients improved significantly in terms of pain level and the Quinnell grading at 6 weeks and 6 months after the intervention in comparison to the pre-injection status. There were no significant differences between the groups. 9 patients (13 %) needed a second injection (6 of BIG, 3 of USG), all of whom had diabetes mellitus. No local complications were seen after the injections.

CONCLUSION

The use of ultrasound-guided injection of corticosteroid may be associated with extra time and effort, with no superior clinical benefits compared to the blinded technique.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 1(prospective randomised study).

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous injection to treat de Quervain's disease using three different techniques: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

To compare the six-month outcome of three different ultrasound-guided treatments for de Quervain's disease (DQD).

METHODS

We prospectively treated 75 consecutive patients (51 females, 24 males, mean age ± standard deviation = 45.3 ± 9.8 years) with DQD. Patients' features (hand dominance, intraretinaculum septum, accessory tendons) were recorded. Visual analogue scale (VAS), reduced disability (quickDASH) score, and retinaculum thickness were evaluated at baseline and after one (excluding retinaculum thickness), three, and six months. Patients were randomized into three groups of 25 patients each treated under ultrasound guidance: Group A (1 ml methylprednisolone acetate; mean baseline thickness = 1.6 mm; mean baseline VAS = 6; mean baseline quickDASH = 55); Group B (1 ml methylprednisolone acetate +15-day delayed 2 ml saline 0.9 %; 1.4; 6; 56); Group C (1 ml methylprednisolone acetate +15-day delayed 2 ml low molecular weight hyaluronic acid; 1.7; 6; 55).

RESULTS

After one month results were: Group A mean VAS = 2; mean quickDASH = 23; Group B 2; 22; Group C 2; 21. After three months results were: Group A retinaculum thickness = 0.7 mm; 3; 27); Group B 0.8 mm; 1; 25; Group C 0.5 mm; 1; 23. After six months results were: Group A 1.5 mm; 3; 51; Group B 1 mm; 2; 51; Group C 0.7 mm; 1; 26 (P < 0.001 for all vs. baseline). Patients' age, sex, hand dominance, presence of subcompartment dividing septum, and supernumerary tendons had no influence on outcome (P  ≥  0.177).

CONCLUSION

Addition of hyaluronic acid to ultrasound-guided injections of steroids to treat DQD seems to improve the outcome and to reduce the recurrence rate.

KEY POINTS

• Ultrasound guidance allows for safe injection procedures to treat de Quervains' disease • Steroid injections allow prompt recovery in de Quervain's disease with short-term recurrence • Addition of hyaluronic acid allows recurrence rate reduction compared to simple steroid injections.

Multidisciplinary consensus guideline for managing trigger finger: results from the European HANDGUIDE Study

BACKGROUND

Trigger finger is characterized by sometimes painful snapping or locking when flexing the finger. Although trigger finger is frequently seen in clinical practice, no standard treatment protocol has been established as "best practice."

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to achieve consensus on a multidisciplinary treatment guideline for trigger finger.

DESIGN

A European Delphi consensus strategy was initiated. Systematic reviews reporting on the effectiveness of surgical and nonsurgical interventions were conducted and used as an evidence-based starting point for this study.

SETTING

In total, 35 experts (hand therapists and hand surgeons selected by the national member associations of their European federations and physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians) participated in the Delphi consensus strategy.

MEASUREMENTS

Each Delphi round consisted of a questionnaire, an analysis, and a feedback report.

RESULTS

After 4 Delphi rounds, consensus was achieved on the description, symptoms, and diagnosis of trigger finger. The experts agreed that use of orthoses (splinting), corticosteroid injections, corticosteroid injections plus use of orthoses, and surgery are suitable treatment options. Relevant details for the use of orthoses, corticosteroid injections, and surgery were described. Main factors for selecting one of these treatment options were identified as severity and duration of the disease and previous treatments received. A relationship between the severity and duration of the disorder and the choice of therapy was indicated by the experts and reported on in the guideline.

LIMITATIONS

The results represent a group's opinion at a given point in time. When the evidence for the effectiveness of interventions increases, experts' opinions will change, and the guideline should be re-evaluated and adjusted in view of these new insights.

CONCLUSIONS

This multidisciplinary treatment guideline may help involved therapists and physicians in the treatment of trigger finger and indicate areas needing additional research.

History and performance of implant materials applied as peritendinous antiadhesives

Peritendinous fibrotic adhesions after tendon surgery are still a problem up-to-date. Approaches to overcome or at least minimize adhesion formation include implantation of barrier materials, application of lubricants or combinations of materials and functionalized drugs that are controllably released and support the healing tendon to glide and achieve the full range of motion after regeneration. Although a huge amount of different materials have been experimentally tested, the optimal strategy with respect to material and method has not yet been determined. In this review, we present a historical overview of physical barriers as well as liquid agents that have been used in order to prevent peritendinous adhesion formation. The materials are divided according to their first publication into two time frames; before and after 1980. There is no claim to include all materials tested neither will the "best" material be chosen; however, we present several materials that were experimentally tested in different animal trials as well as in clinical trials in contrast to other materials that were only tested once and disappeared from the assortment of anti-adhesives; which as such is a valuable information about its applicability for this purpose.

The use of hyaluronic acid after tendon surgery and in tendinopathies

Viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid is safe and effective in the management of osteoarthritis, but its use in the treatment of tendon disorders has received less attention. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on this topic, evaluating experimental and clinical trials. A search of English-language articles was performed using the key search terms “hyaluronic acid” or “viscosupplementation” combined with “tendon,” “tendinopathy,“ “adhesions,“ or “gliding,“ independently. In quite all the experimental studies, performed after surgical procedures for tendon injuries or in the treatment of chronic tendinopathies, using different hyaluronic acid compounds, positive results (reduced formation of scars and granulation tissue after tendon repair, less adhesions and gliding resistance, and improved tissue healing) were observed. In a limited number of cases, hyaluronic acid has been employed in clinical practice. After flexor tendon surgery, a greater total active motion and fingers function, with an earlier return to work and daily activities, were observed. Similarly, in patients suffering from elbow, patellar, and shoulder tendons disorders, pain was reduced, and function improved. The positive effect of hyaluronic acid can be attributed to the anti-inflammatory activity, enhanced cell proliferation, and collagen deposition, besides the lubricating action on the sliding surface of the tendon.

Ultrasound-guided procedures around the wrist and hand: how to do

Ultrasound has emerged as a low-cost, radiation-free and effective imaging technique to detect joint abnormalities and to guide percutaneous procedures. Being superficial, wrist and hand tendons and joints represent a good target to perform such procedures using ultrasound guidance. This kind of approach allows for a clear and real-time visualization of the needles during their whole path. In this setting, the knowledge of technical aspects and tips is essential to act in the most accurate way on target tissues that can be as small as a few millimetres. The aim of this review is to summarize the local treatments of inflammatory and degenerative disease described in literature (such as treatment of De Quervain's tenosynovitis, trigger finger, trapezio-metacarpal joint osteoarthritis, etc.), emphasizing precautions and tricks based on day-by-day experience that may help to improve the outcome of percutaneous ultrasound-guided procedures around the wrist and hand.

Tendinopathy: a review of the pathophysiology and evidence for treatment

The understanding of tendinopathy has evolved over the past several decades. Initially thought to be a primarily inflammatory process, histologic evaluation has revealed that there is an absence of inflammatory cells, and rather, tendinopathy is more of a degenerative process. Various types of medications, rehabilitation, modalities, injections, and minimally invasive procedures have been described as treatment for this condition. The purpose of our article is to describe the pathophysiology of tendinopathy as currently understood and the evidence for the various available treatments. We performed a literature search to determine the types of reviews that have been performed previously regarding treatment for tendinopathy, and summarized these reviews. We then performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials for treating patients with tendinopathy. It is our hope that our review of trial data will help providers to determine optimal management for their patients with tendinopathy.

Gliding resistance and modifications of gliding surface of tendon: clinical perspectives

The smooth gliding of the normal human digital flexor is maintained by synovial fluid lubrication and lubricants bound to the tendon surface. This system can be disrupted by degenerative conditions such as trigger finger, or by trauma. The resistance to tendon gliding after surgical repair of the lacerated digital flexor tendon relates to location of suture knots, exposure of suture materials, and type of surgical repair and materials. Restoration of a functioning gliding surface after injury can be helped by using low-friction, high-strength suture designs, therapy that enables gliding, and the addition of lubricants to the tendon surface.