Dupuytren's contracture is a condition where some of the soft tissue in the palm becomes firmer (like scar tissue) and gradually the fingers start to bend inwards towards the palm. They normally can bend in fully into a fist, but cannot fully straighten out away from the palm. This often causes problems with day to day functioning of the hand and can be a nuisance to patients.
We do not fully understand the cause of Dupuytren's contracture but the most common treatment is surgery to remove or release the firm scar like tissue and thereby allow the fingers to better straighten again. The procedure normally takes between 1 and 2 hours and the risks of surgery will be discussed with you in clinic.
Dupuytren's surgery
Time Scale
This surgery is sometimes done under local anaesthetic and sometimes under general anaesthetic depending on various factors. Patients can usually go home on the day of surgery. Recovery takes at least 2-4 weeks and return to work will depend on your job.
