Dupuytren’s Disease or Contracture

Dupuytren’s disease or Dupuytren’s contracture is a disorder of tissue in the palm called fascia, in which it becomes abnormally thickened. This can lead to cords that cause flexion contractures of the fingers, in which the fingers become bent into the palm. More severe contractures can affect function in the hand.

While there is no cure, the condition is not dangerous, and there are treatment options available.

The diagnosis of Dupuytren’s disease typically is made based on clinical evaluation. Common features include thickened nodules in the palm or thickened cords that can cause contractures of the fingers.

There also can be involvement with thickening of tissue in the feet (Ledderhose disease) or the penis (Peyronie’s disease).

Once finger contractures become significant, treatment typically is recommended. In some cases, Dupuytren’s cords can be treated with injection of an enzyme called collagenase (Xiaflex). In other cases, an office-based procedure known as needle aponeurotomy (or fasciotomy) can be performed. A surgical procedure known as a fasciectomy can be performed in which the diseased tissue is removed. This surgical procedure often provides the most durable and longest-lasting results.

Recovery from any procedures including collagenase (Xiaflex) injection, needle aponeurotomy (or fasciotomy), or surgical fasciectomy often requires splinting and hand therapy in some cases. While the non-operative treatment options have a quicker recovery, surgical fasciectomy has a more prolonged recovery.

Be sure to see an experienced surgeon to treat this condition. Our fellowship-trained specialists at The Buncke Clinic in San Francisco treat patients with Dupuytren’s disease (or contracture) from across the Bay Area and Northern California. Contact us to schedule a consultation.

Below are links for third party resources

American Society for Surgery of the Hand

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons