A randomized controlled trial comparing ketorolac and triamcinolone injections in adults with trigger digits

Abstract

We assessed the efficacy of ketorolac trometamol injections compared with triamcinolone acetonide injections in trigger digits. Patients with trigger digits were randomized to receive either ketorolac or triamcinolone. They were followed up at 3, 6, 12 and 24 weeks, and monitored for resolution of triggering, pain and total active motion. One hundred and twenty-one patients with single trigger digits were recruited (59 ketorolac, 62 triamcinolone). At 6 weeks, 54% of patients in the triamcinolone group had complete resolution of trigger, whereas no patients in the ketorolac group had resolution. At 12 weeks, 58% of patients in the triamcinolone group had complete resolution of trigger compared with 6.7% in the ketorolac group. At 24 weeks, both groups had comparable rates of resolution at 26% and 25%, respectively. Patients in the triamcinolone group had significantly better resolution of pain at 3, 6 and 12 weeks. But at 24 weeks, there was no significant difference in pain between both groups. Significantly less flexion deformity was reported at 3 weeks and 6 weeks in the triamcinolone group. In the short term, ketorolac was less effective in relieving symptoms of trigger digit than triamcinolone. Level of evidence: I