DUPUYTREN'S CONTRACTURE TREATMENT

The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture isn’t known, but it is believed to run in families. Most commonly found in patients of Northern European descent, it’s sometimes referred to as Viking disease and can be traced back centuries.

There is a greater risk for this condition if:

• Are a male 40+
• Northern European ancestry
• Smoke or drink alcohol
• Are Diabetic
• Take seizure medication
• Previous hand injury

Surgery For Dupuytren’s Contracture is generally not needed if your fingers can be straightened fully. It becomes necessary when it’s impossible for you to stretch your hand out flat out. Dr. Pournaras can discuss with you, your options on the type of surgery that is best to treat your condition.  The procedure can be done under local, regional (injection of local anesthetic at the shoulder) or general anesthetic.

SURGICAL OPTIONS:

Fasciotomy

The contracted cord of Dupuytren’s disease is simply cut in the palm, in the finger or in both.

Segmental Fasciectomy

Short segments of the cord are removed through one or more small incisions.

Regional Fasciectomy

Through a single longer incision, the entire cord is removed.

Dermofasciectomy

The cord is removed together with the overlying skin and the skin is replaced with a graft taken usually from the upper arm. This surgery is usually the best option for the recurrent of the disease, or for extensive disease in a younger patient to help prevent recurrence.

After Your Surgery, your hand is fitted with a splint to be worn at night.

Hand therapy is important in recovering movement and function, especially for more extensive surgery and skin grafts.  

These surgeries are often followed by hand therapy to strengthen the muscles and improve function. We offer this therapy as well.

 Our orthopedic practice specializes in hand surgery, and we offer state-of-the-art nonsurgical and surgical care to treat a full range of hand and finger injuries and conditions.