What is Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that affects the hand, causing one or more fingers to bend into the palm and become stiff, making it difficult to straighten them out completely. This condition affects the connective tissue in the palm and fingers, leading to the formation of thick, fibrous lumps (nodules) and bands of tissue that can contract, pulling the fingers towards the palm.

The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is unknown, but several factors are thought to play a role, including genetics, age, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and epilepsy. The condition is most commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly people, particularly those of Northern European descent.

The symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture usually develop slowly over time, with the first sign being a small, painless lump or nodule in the palm of the hand. As the condition progresses, the lump may become larger, and bands of tissue may form, pulling the fingers into the palm. In some cases, the affected fingers may be unable to be straightened out completely, making it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as shaking hands or holding objects.

Diagnosis of Dupuytren’s contracture is usually based on a physical examination of the hand, although further tests, such as an X-ray, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture will depend on the severity of the symptoms and the degree of finger contracture. In mild cases, no treatment may be needed, and the condition may simply be monitored. However, in more severe cases, treatment may be necessary to correct the contracture and improve hand function.

Non-surgical treatments for Dupuytren’s contracture may include splints or physical therapy to help maintain hand and finger mobility, as well as needle aponeurotomy, a procedure that involves using a needle to break up the bands of tissue causing the contracture.

In more severe cases, surgical treatment may be necessary to correct the contracture. The most common surgical procedure used to treat Dupuytren’s contracture is a fasciectomy, in which the affected tissue is surgically removed, allowing the fingers to be straightened out. Other surgical options include dermofasciectomy, which involves removing the skin and underlying tissue, and collagenase injection, which involves injecting a medication into the affected tissue to break it down.

In conclusion, Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that affects the hand, causing one or more fingers to bend into the palm and become stiff. The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is unknown, but several factors are thought to play a role, including genetics, age, and certain medical conditions. The symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture usually develop slowly over time, with the first sign being a small lump or nodule in the palm of the hand. Treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture will depend on the severity of the symptoms and the degree of finger contracture and may include splints, physical therapy, needle aponeurotomy, fasciectomy, dermofasciectomy, and collagenase injection. If you are experiencing symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.