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Dupuytren's Contracture
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition in which tissue in the palm of the hand covering the finger tendons thickens and scars. This tissue becomes tight and shortened, contracting the fingers inwards toward the palm.
The development of Dupuytren’s contracture usually occurs quite slowly over many months, or even years, though in rare cases it can develop suddenly. It can affect any of the fingers, but it most commonly affects the little finger and ring finger. It can occur in only one hand or in both hands at the same time.
Dupuytren’s contracture is a relatively common condition but its cause is not fully understood. In most cases it does not occur until after the age of 40 years and it is more common in men than it is in women.
Dupuytren’s contracture runs in families so it is thought that genetics can play a part in the development of the condition. Other factors that increase the likelihood of developing Dupuytren’s contracture include:
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Alcoholism
- Occupations exposed to vibration.
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Often the first sign of the condition is a painless lump in the palm of the hand near the base of the fingers. This may be followed by a feeling of tightness and/or tenderness in the fingers.
As the condition progresses it is difficult to fully straighten the fingers and there may be dimpling and puckering of the skin over the area. Eventually contracture of the fingers may become so severe that they cannot be used.
The condition is not painful in itself, however some pain may be experienced if the fingers are forcibly straightened.
In some cases the muscles in the hand may become weakened and wasted through not being able to be properly used.
Often the characteristic symptoms of the condition are enough for the doctor to suspect Dupuytren’s contracture. A formal diagnosis of condition is made based on assessment of the medical history and a physical examination, and by ruling out other conditions that may be causing the symptoms.
Treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture will depend on the severity of the condition. If the condition is not severe and is not greatly inconveniencing, no treatment may be required. The doctor may recommend monitoring the condition so that treatment can be prescribed when necessary.
Gentle stretching exercises and the application of heat and/or ultrasound may be recommended in the early stages. A referral to a physiotherapist may be made for this.
If there is pain or inflammation in the area, cortisone (steroid) injections directly into the affected area may be recommended.
Once the condition progresses to a point where the condition is limiting or disabling, surgery is usually recommended. Surgery involves removing the excess tissue in the palm and returning function to the fingers.
The surgical procedure is known as a “fasciectomy” and involves making an incision in the centre of the palm. Once the excess tissue has been removed, the fingers are able to flex and contract normally. This is a relatively simple and highly successful procedure.
Surgery is followed by a period of recovery and rehabilitation. The time required for this will vary between individuals. It may be necessary to wear a bandage, cast or splint for a short time after surgery and physiotherapy to aid recovery may be recommended.
There is a possibility that the condition can recur after it has been surgically corrected. This tends to be related to the age of onset - the earlier the condition develops in life the more likely it is to recur.
Anderson, K.N., Anderson, L.E. & Glanze, W.D. (eds.) (2006) Mosby’s medical, nursing, & allied health dictionary (6th ed.) St. Louis: Mosby-Year Book, Inc.
Adult Health Advisor (2006) Dupuytren’s contracture. Clinical Reference System. Health and Wellness Resource Centre. McKesson Health Solutions.
MedicineNet (2006). Dupuytren contracture. Foothill Ranch MedicineNet.Inc -
http://www.medicinenet.com/dupuytren_contracture/article.htm
Last Reviewed – 21/08/07
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