DUPUYTREN'S CONTRACTURE

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Dupuytren's Contracture is a common condition, where abnormal thickening develops in the tissue just under the skin of the palm and fingers. This thickening forms nodules and cords which can cause the fingers to bend into the palm.  The thickened tissue can sometimes be uncomfortable but the condition is not typically painful. As the fingers are drawn into the palm there can be a progressive interference with hand function and activities such as washing, wearing gloves, shaking hands and manipulating objects, become more difficult.

 

In the early stages, especially where there is no interference with the use of the hand, no intervention is required. Where contractures are more significant there are a variety of treatment options available. The role of surgery in such cases is to remove all or parts of the abnormal tissue in order to improve the position of the finger and hand function.