The relationship between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) use and trigger finger (TF) remains unknown. This study aims to compare rates of TF, TF release, and complications of TF release between diabetic patients with and without a history of GLP-1 RA use.

This study utilized the TriNetX database to identify adult patients with Type II diabetes mellitus. The primary analysis included patients with and without a history of GLP-1 RA use. The secondary analysis included patients with a history of TF separated by the presence or absence of GLP-1 RA use, respectively. The tertiary analysis included patients with and without a history of GLP-1 RA use within the 6 months prior to TF release. Cohorts were propensity-matched 1:1 based on demographic characteristics and medical comorbidities. The primary outcome was the incidence of TF; the secondary outcome was the incidence of TF release. Tertiary outcomes included postoperative complications within 90 days of surgery.

GLP-1 RA use was associated with a significant reduction in the prevalence of trigger finger. In contrast, GLP-1 RA users demonstrated a higher prevalence of TF release and similar rates of surgical site infection, joint stiffness, wound dehiscence, and abscess irrigation and debridement following operative release.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist use in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with a reduction in the prevalence of trigger finger without an elevation in complication risk following surgical release. Interestingly, we also observed increased prevalence of trigger finger release among glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist users.