What Is Dupuytren’s Contracture?
Dupuytren’s Contracture is a progressive condition that results from the thickening of tissue in the palm. As the tissue knots and deforms, cords form that pull the fingers towards the palm. This taut tissue reduces a person’s ability to straighten the fingers and hand. Over time, the fingers can become severely bent, which can lead to functional inconvenience and aesthetic concerns.
At Advanced Dermatology, P.C. offers treatments to remove Dupuytren’s contracture for patients in New York. If you suffer from Dupuytren’s contracture and find that it has become increasingly difficult to carry out normal tasks, hand surgery may be an option for you.
Causes and Symptoms
There is no known cause for Dupuytren’s contracture. The condition develops over time, and generally presents itself in older individuals. Genetic predisposition and diabetes are thought to increase the risk of developing the Dupuytren’s contracture, as well as lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture include:
- Firm lump on the palm of the hand
- Puckered skin
- Bent, or crooked fingers, usually the pinky, ring and sometimes the middle finger
- Inability to to fully open or flatten the hand
- Limited ability to grasp objects
Diagnosis and Treatment
Our surgeon can diagnose Dupuytren’s contracture by examining the physical characteristics of your hand and finger. While Dupuytren’s contracture can affect both hands, it tends to be worse in one hand. Unfortunately there is no cure for the condition. However, there are corrective treatments available that can improve your quality of life.
- Minimally Invasive Treatments: Needling or enzyme injections may be used to break the knotted tissue. Needling involves directly puncturing the cords, while enzyme injections can slacken the cords so that the fingers can be extended to break the cord.
- Hand Surgery: For those with advanced cases of Dupuytren’s contracture, surgery is often the preferred method to remove the cord of tissue that has formed. Surgery offers more sustained results.
Recovery from Surgery
Hand surgery for Dupuytren’s contracture is a safe procedure and typically leads to longer-lasting results than other nonsurgical treatments. Because it is a more invasive procedure, the recovery time is longer. Patients can expect a period of post-surgical physical therapy. The length of time it takes to rehabilitate the hand will depend on the severity of the condition and the surgical method needed to address the issue. Our surgeon will discuss the benefits and risks of surgery during your consultation.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If Dupuytren’s contracture is affecting your ability to straighten your fingers and complete everyday activities, contact Advanced Dermatology today to schedule a consultation with our hand surgeon. Our surgeon will recommend the best course of action to help you restore the lost motor functions in your fingers.
