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Dupuytren's contracture
is a condition of the hand
in which the palm's
connective tissue
(fascia) proliferates,
thickens and contracts.
Palmar nodules are
typically the first
presentation of
Dupuytren's. As the
palmar fascia thickens
and the disease
progresses, cords
develop and contraction
increases, flexing the
fingers towards the palm.
Overlying skin often
dimples. The ring and
little finger are most
commonly affected.
Progression is often
erratic and arbitrary with
no obvious cause.
Associated conditions
include:
is a condition of the hand
in which the palm's
connective tissue
(fascia) proliferates,
thickens and contracts.
Palmar nodules are
typically the first
presentation of
Dupuytren's. As the
palmar fascia thickens
and the disease
progresses, cords
develop and contraction
increases, flexing the
fingers towards the palm.
Overlying skin often
dimples. The ring and
little finger are most
commonly affected.
Progression is often
erratic and arbitrary with
no obvious cause.
Associated conditions
include:
- Ledderhose's
disease - fibrosis in
the soles of the feet.
- Peyronie's disease -
fibrous plaques on
the penis.
- Knuckle pads -
fibrous pads on the
top of knuckles.
Dupuytren's Disease
Finger Joints
Dupuytren's Center Chicago
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What is it?
Dupuytren's disease is a genetic disease. It usually
presents later in life with some incidences reported in
children. It is most prevalent in men of Northern
European descent. Diabetes, epilepsy, thyroid
problems, alcoholism, liver disease and smoking are
all considered predisposing factors. Trauma and
exposure to chronic hand vibration may also
exacerbate this condition.
presents later in life with some incidences reported in
children. It is most prevalent in men of Northern
European descent. Diabetes, epilepsy, thyroid
problems, alcoholism, liver disease and smoking are
all considered predisposing factors. Trauma and
exposure to chronic hand vibration may also
exacerbate this condition.
Who gets it?
What are the treatment options?
Any CONTRACTION OF THE FINGERS is an indication
for treatment with either Needle Aponevrotomy (NA) or
surgery. Any flexion of the finger joints
(metacarpophalangeal (MCP), proximal interphalangeal
(PIP) and/or distal interphalangeal (DIP)) that interferes
with use of the hand should be released. The sooner this
is completed, the better the functional outcome.
There is no cure for this disease. Dupuytren's disease
may reoccur after both NA and surgery (about 50% of
patients experience recurrence of the disease within 2 or
3 years). Treating recurrent disease after NA is easier
than after open surgery.
Treatment options:
for treatment with either Needle Aponevrotomy (NA) or
surgery. Any flexion of the finger joints
(metacarpophalangeal (MCP), proximal interphalangeal
(PIP) and/or distal interphalangeal (DIP)) that interferes
with use of the hand should be released. The sooner this
is completed, the better the functional outcome.
There is no cure for this disease. Dupuytren's disease
may reoccur after both NA and surgery (about 50% of
patients experience recurrence of the disease within 2 or
3 years). Treating recurrent disease after NA is easier
than after open surgery.
Treatment options:
- Needle Aponevrotomy (NA): This is an outpatient
non-surgical procedure in which a small hypodermic
needle is used to release the contracting bands of
Dupuytren's disease. Immediate correction is
noted. Recovery is minimal. Complications are
few. The expense is considerably less than surgery.
- Open surgery:
- Fasciectomy: This procedure completely
excises the diseased fascia of the palm and
digits. Requires general anesthesia or nerve
block. Extensive rehabilitation and recovery are
needed, often weeks or months.
- Fasciotomy: Hand incisions are made above
the hardened Dupuytren's cord. Sharp
dissection is performed to facilitate release.
Baron Guillaume
Dupuytren first
described the disease in
1831.
Dupuytren first
described the disease in
1831.
Please call with any
questions or to
make an
appointment.
questions or to
make an
appointment.
773-844-2800