Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive hand condition in which the connective tissue in the palm and fingers becomes thickened and forms nodules and cords. Over time, these nodules and cords can cause the fingers to bend inward, resulting in a flexed or contracted position. Dupuytren’s contracture most commonly affects the ring finger and little finger but can also involve other fingers.
Here are some key points about Dupuytren’s contracture:
1. Causes:
The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development. It is more common in individuals of Northern European descent and has been associated with genetics, age, gender (men are more commonly affected), and certain health conditions, such as diabetes and liver disease.
2. Progression:
Dupuytren’s contracture typically progresses slowly over time. The thickened tissue forms nodules or lumps in the palm, which can eventually develop into cords extending towards the fingers. As the cords contract, they pull the affected fingers into a flexed or bent position.
3. Symptoms:
The main symptom of Dupuytren’s contracture is the development of one or more contractures, where the affected fingers cannot be fully straightened. Other symptoms may include pain, discomfort, and difficulty with tasks that require full hand function, such as grasping objects or placing the hand flat on a surface.
4. Treatment Options:
The treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture depends on the severity of the condition, the degree of finger contracture, and the impact on hand function. Treatment options include:
- Observation: In mild cases where the contracture does not significantly affect hand function, no immediate treatment may be necessary, and the condition can be monitored over time.
- Non-surgical Interventions: Various non-surgical treatments can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of Dupuytren’s contracture. These include hand therapy, splinting, and corticosteroid injections. These interventions aim to improve finger extension and relieve discomfort.
- Surgical Procedures: When the contracture becomes severe and significantly affects hand function, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include fasciotomy (partial release of the contracted tissue) or fasciectomy (complete removal of the affected tissue). In some cases, skin grafting or other reconstructive procedures may be necessary to restore hand function.
5. Rehabilitation and Recovery:
After surgical intervention, rehabilitation and hand therapy play a vital role in optimizing recovery. These programs focus on reducing swelling, restoring finger movement and strength, and helping the patient regain functional use of the hand.
It’s important to consult with a hand specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon or a hand surgeon, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific condition. They can evaluate the severity of your Dupuytren’s contracture, discuss the available treatment options, and provide guidance on the most suitable approach to address your hand function and symptoms. At Alabama Bone and Joint Clinic our specialists are able to guide you through your treatment options. Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts in orthopedic care.
