What is trigger finger surgery?
Trigger finger surgery is a procedure used to treat a condition where a finger or thumb gets stuck in a bent position and then suddenly pops straight. This happens when the tendon that helps bend the finger becomes irritated and can’t glide smoothly through its sheath.
What are the different types of trigger finger surgery?
The surgery can be done using two main methods: open release or percutaneous release. Both methods are generally performed under local anaesthesia and are considered minor procedures.
Open release
Open trigger finger involves making a small incision in the palm or base of the finger to release the constricted tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to move freely again.
Percutaneous release
Percutaneous release is a minimally invasive procedure where a needle is used to cut the tendon sheath, releasing the constricted tendon and allowing it to move freely. This technique, also known as needle fasciotomy, aims to alleviate the symptoms of trigger finger without the need for open surgery and its associated longer recovery time.
Your doctor will decide the best method based on the severity of your trigger finger, the finger involved, and your medical history. Both techniques are typically performed as day surgery.
Why do I need trigger finger surgery?
You may be recommended for the surgery if your finger remains stuck in a bent position, locks frequently, or causes pain and stiffness that doesn’t improve with rest, splints, or steroid injections.
Surgery is usually advised when non-surgical treatments fail, symptoms interfere with daily tasks (like gripping, typing, or writing), or the finger becomes permanently locked.
The goal of surgery is to release the tight tendon sheath so your finger can move smoothly again, reducing pain and restoring hand function.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general knowledge only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, request an appointment with our specialists at Thomson Medical for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
What is the cost of trigger finger surgery in Singapore?
Costs for trigger finger surgery in Singapore vary significantly depending on whether you choose a public or private hospital.
Trigger finger surgeries are under TOSP codes SB709H for single-finger release and SB708H for multiple-finger release
Day surgery
The information for private hospitals about the cost of trigger finger surgery is between SGD 4,333 and SGD 6,032 for day surgeries based on the SB709H fee benchmarks.
Inpatient surgery
For inpatient surgeries, the cost will range from SGD 3,225 to SGD 5,486 at private hospitals.
MOH provided a breakdown of the fees for private hospitals and clinics as per SB709H - Hand, Flexor Tendon, Trigger Finger (Single), Release.
Breakdown of Fees
However, additional charges may arise from expenses such as pre-surgery consultations, imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans, medications, post-surgery follow-up appointments, and extended rehabilitation.
This article was written in May 2025. Hence, prices for trigger finger surgery may have changed since then. For more accurate benchmarking prices, please visit the MOH website for more details.
Are there any subsidies for trigger finger surgery?
Yes, there are several schemes in Singapore that can help offset the total costs of trigger finger surgery.
These include MediSave, MediShield Life, and Integrated Shield Plans. Each offers different levels of coverage for your trigger finger surgery, depending on your eligibility and insurance arrangements.
MediSave
MediSave is a national medical savings scheme that allows Singaporean citizens and permanent residents to use their savings for hospitalisation expenses.
For hospitalisation, you can use up to SGD 1,130 per day for the first two days and SGD 400 per day for subsequent days for inpatient hospital charges. These charges include daily ward changes, treatment fees, investigations, and medicines.
For day surgery, you can claim up to SGD 830 per day for hospital charges related to the procedure. For surgery, you can use between SGD 240 and SGD 5,290 from your MediSave, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
According to the CPF website, trigger finger surgery (single) is classified under 2A on the Table of Surgical Procedures (TOSP). Hence, the withdrawal limit for trigger finger surgery is SGD 760.
This article was written in May 2025. Hence, prices for trigger finger surgery may have changed since then. For more accurate benchmarking prices, please visit the CPF website for more details.
MediShield Life
MediShield Life is a basic health insurance plan for all Singaporeans and PRs, designed to help pay for large hospital bills and selected costly outpatient treatments.
It will cover a portion of the surgical and hospitalisation costs for trigger finger surgery, and similar to MediSave, there are claim limits.
For hospitalisation, the claim limits are SGD 830 per day for normal wards and SGD 5,140 for intensive care unit (ICU) wards, which include an additional SGD 800 per day for the first two inpatient days.
For surgical procedures, MediShield Life also follows the TOSP, meaning that there will be a claim limit for trigger finger surgery (single) at SGD 1,920.
This article was written in May 2025. Hence, prices for trigger finger surgery may have changed since then. For more accurate benchmarking prices, please visit the CPF website for more details.
Integrated Shield Plans
Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) are private insurance policies that offer additional coverage beyond what is provided by MediShield Life. They can cover a larger portion of your hospital bill, especially if you opt for private hospitals or higher-class wards.
Many IPs also offer “as-charged” benefits, meaning they cover the actual bill amount, subject to policy terms and annual limits.
Coverage details and claim limits vary depending on the insurer and the specific plan and additional riders purchased.
If you are curious how much you can claim from your IPs for your trigger finger surgery, it is best to talk to your insurance provider directly to discuss the details of your plan. For those under Prudential, please contact us via the Prudential medical concierge form if you have any further questions.
What factors affect the cost of my trigger finger surgery?
Several key factors influence the final bill for trigger finger surgery in Singapore:
Pre-surgery expenses
Initial consultation fees
Diagnostic imaging tests
Pre-operative assessments
Specialist referrals (when necessary)
Surgery-related costs
Surgical fees and anaesthesias
Medical devices and implants (when necessary)
Day surgery vs inpatient costs
Post-surgery expenses
Follow-up consultations
Physiotherapy sessions
Wound care supplies
Orthopaedic Surgeons at Thomson Medical
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Case Study: Private Hospital with Integrated Shield Plan
Profile: A 29-year-old experiencing painful locking and stiffness in her left middle finger, which made it difficult to hold stationery and write for extended periods. Initial treatments like splinting and anti-inflammatory medication offered only temporary relief.
After consulting a hand specialist, she was diagnosed with trigger finger and advised to undergo a percutaneous release procedure. The surgery was done under local anaesthesia at a private hospital, and she returned home the same day.
| Estimated total bill | Insurance coverage | Final out-of-pocket expenses |
|---|---|---|
| SGD 3,225 to SGD 5,486* | Since 2019, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has mandated that all new IP riders include a minimum 5% co-payment—to encourage prudent use of healthcare services and avoid overconsumption.
| The patient would need to pay from SGD 161 to 274, which can usually be covered by MediSave.
|
Please note that for the most accurate estimate of insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses, you should consult their insurance provider directly, as coverage details vary by plan and insurer.
*This article was written in May 2025. Prices for trigger finger surgery are currently not available for private hospitals, so an estimate was included. This may have changed since then. For more accurate benchmarking prices, please visit the MOH website for more details.
How do I process my insurance claims?
To process an insurance claim at a hospital in Singapore, you typically need to inform the hospital staff of your intent to claim, gather required documents like final bills and receipts, and submit the claim to your insurance provider through their designated channels (online portal, email, etc.).
For some insurance policies, the hospital may handle the claims process directly, especially for cashless claims. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Understand your coverage:
Before you schedule your treatment, meet up with your financial advisor to discuss the costs and coverage available for you should you undergo trigger finger surgery.
Inform the hospital:
When you are admitted to the hospital, inform the hospital staff that you wish to make an insurance claim. They may guide you through the necessary paperwork and forms.
Gather the required documents:
Ensure you have all the original, final bills and receipts for all treatments, including hospital stays, procedures, and medications.
If available, gather any relevant medical reports, diagnostic test results, and discharge summaries.
If you used your MediSave account for payment, you'll need a statement showing the Hospital Registration Number (HRN).
You may need to download and complete a claim form from your insurance provider's website.
Submit the claim:
Many insurers offer different portals for submitting claims, including online portals, mobile apps, email, or direct paper submission to your financial advisor.
If the hospital handles the claim directly, they will submit it on your behalf.
Follow up and track progress:
You should receive an acknowledgement of your claim submission.
Check the status of your claim through your insurer's online portal or app.
Do note that claim processing typically takes about 2 to 3 months from the date of submission (e-filing).
Some complex cases may take longer, especially if additional documents or clarifications are required.
If you don't receive updates after 3 months or have more questions, contact your insurer or the hospital for assistance.
At Thomson Medical, the insurance claims process is streamlined for your convenience.
The hospital provides e-filing services, submitting claims directly to MediSave, MediShield Life, and Integrated Shield Plan providers on your behalf.
This approach reduces paperwork and ensures claims are processed efficiently, allowing you to focus on recovery.
FAQ
How painful is surgery for a trigger finger?
Trigger finger surgery is performed with a local anaesthetic, so you do not feel pain during the procedure, regardless of the type of surgery. Over-the-counter pain medication typically manages the pain and soreness you may experience after surgery.
How long does recovery from trigger finger surgery take?
Full recovery from surgery usually occurs within a few weeks, but the swelling and stiffness may take up to six months to subside. In some cases, physical therapy may be helpful to loosen the stiffness in the fingers.
Can you bend your finger after trigger finger surgery?
Your finger and hand may be sore and swollen for several days. It may be hard to move your finger at first.
Can I fix my trigger finger without surgery?
Most trigger finger cases can be effectively managed without surgery with conservative measures. These may include modifying activity to rest the tendon, using a trigger finger splint that immobilises the finger in a straightened position, and a corticosteroid injection.
What happens if you ignore your trigger finger?
Over time, trigger finger can interfere with hand coordination, making it difficult to perform tasks such as writing, gripping, or even eating. Loss of hand function can have a profound impact on a person's independence, especially for those relying on fine motor skills in their work.
When can you get your hand wet after trigger finger surgery?
The dressing may be removed 2 to 3 days after surgery. You can get the hand wet in the shower or under running water in the sink. After showering, you should apply a plaster over the incision. Please do not apply any ointments or creams on the sutures.
Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice on pricing and services, contact us at Thomson Medical today.
For more information, contact us:
Thomson Specialists (Thomson Medical Centre) — Orthopaedic
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