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Dupuytren’s contracture can affect hand function, making daily tasks very difficult to perform. In this article, we will discuss what Dupuytren’s contracture is, what causes it to progress, how it’s diagnosed, and the treatment options available.
Feel free to contact JIS Orthopedics if you have any concerns with your hand or finger movements. Our orthopedic surgeons are helping patients in New Albany and Clairsville, OH. Contact us today!
Dupuytren’s contracture is characterized by the curling of one or more fingers toward the palm of the hand. It occurs as a result of Dupuytren’s disease.
Dupuytren’s disease affects the fibrous layer of tissue on the palm of the hand called the palmar fascia. This tissue is found under the skin but above the tendons, bones, blood vessels, and nerves. The condition causes the fascia to thicken and shorten over time. This may pull the fingers, causing them to stick in a bent position.
Dupuytren’s contracture is an inherited genetic condition which effects a particular type of collagen in your tissues creating the potential for contracture to occur.
The associated risk factors that contribute toward the developing or worsening of Dupuytren’s disease include the following:
You will normally notice a Dupuytren’s contracture worsening very slowly for years. The signs and symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture may include:
Your doctor will begin by considering your medical and family history. They will then perform a physical exam and check the current condition of your fingers and hand.
Your doctor will then examine your fingers and hand. During the exam, they will likely:
They will register these measurements to evaluate how the condition progresses over time.
To diagnose wrist rheumatoid arthritis, a comprehensive evaluation is required. Your healthcare provider will consider your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order specific tests. Blood tests, such as rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibody tests, can help in confirming the diagnosis.
Although there is no cure for Dupuytren’s disease, treatments can be provided to slow the disease down. This includes both non-surgical and surgical options, which are described below.
Your doctor will usually begin to treat Dupuytren’s disease with non-surgical treatments. Non-surgical treatments for Dupuytren’s disease include the following:
Surgical treatment may be recommended if the contracture interferes with hand function. Surgery can help improve the range of motion in the affected fingers. The procedures work by disrupting or removing the cords. Although there is a potential for the cords to return, many patients experience significant gains in hand function.
Surgical procedures for Dupuytren’s contracture include the following:
Fasciotomy
In fasciotomy, your surgeon will make incisions to divide the thickened tissue. During recovery, your affected finger will be put into a splint to keep your finger(s) straight. As the diseased tissue is not removed, the contracture is more likely to return than in partial palmar fasciectomy.
Partial Palmar Fasciectomy
This surgical procedure is more extensive than fasciotomy. Your surgeon will make “zig-zag” incisions and remove as much of the diseased tissue as possible. They will likely cover the wound with a skin graft to aid the healing process.
Physical therapy sessions and recovery time will be longer than for those who have the fasciotomy procedure—however, the chances of recurrence are lower.
At JIS Orthopedics, our orthopedic surgeons are expertly trained to treat several hand conditions. If you are looking for expert treatment tailored to your specific needs, give us a call today! We have practices in New Albany and St. Clairsville, Ohio.
Medically reviewed by AJ Julka, MD
If you’re suffering from finger pain, hand pain, wrist pain, or any upper extremity injuries, learn how Dr. AJ Julka and JIS Orthopedics can help you get back to living your life without limits. To schedule a consultation, click the button below!
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