What is Dupuytren’s disease?
Dupuytren’s disease is a condition where scar-like tissue forms just beneath the skin of your fingers and the palm of your hand.
Over time, this fibrous tissue can contract and force one or more fingers to curl up into the palm. This is known as Dupuytren’s contracture.
Are there any alternatives to a Dupuytren's fasciectomy?
The consultant may be able to perform a needle aponeurotomy (inserting a small needle under the skin to release the tight cords). However, there is a higher risk of the contracture coming back.
Collagenase can be injected into the bands of tissue but this is a new treatment and it is unclear how effective it is.
The most effective treatment is surgery.
What does the operation involve?
The surgery can range from simply cutting a fibrous band in the palm of your hand to removing all of the affected skin and replacing it with skin grafts.
Various anaesthetic techniques are possible.
