Dupuytren’s contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture is a contracture of the palmar aponeurosis due to the gradual fibrosis of the subcutaneous tissue. This disfiguring contracture causes the fingers to curl. The ring finger and the little finger are the fingers usually affected. The disease most commonly affects men between the ages of 40 and 60 and it is more likely to occur in people with a family history of the contracture and a hereditary predisposition. Other factors that predispose the patient to the disease are smoking, alcohol abuse, epilepsy and diabetes.

Treatment can either be conservative or surgical, depending on the stage of the disease. Conservative treatment, which includes medication, splinting and passive stretching, is mainly applied in mild cases. Surgical treatment is required when the metacarpophalangeal joint curls at an angle of more than 30°. Surgical techniques vary depending on the case. Percutaneous aponeurotomy and segmental fasciectomy are the most common of them.

Brief description of the procedure

Percutaneous aponeurotomy

This procedure requires local anesthesia. Instead of using a scalpel, specific needles are inserted in the skin at certain places and the subcutaneous cord is cut after pulling the fingers straight. Then, the incisions are closed and the patient is fitted with a special splint. Percutaneous aponeurotomy is performed in certain, usually mild, cases.

Limited fasciectomy

This procedure requires local or regional anesthesia. During the operation, the diseased part of the aponeurosis is excised and the fingers are straightened. Then, the incisions are closed and the patient is fitted with a special splint.

Each case is different and, therefore, needs to be properly evaluated, so that the most appropriate method is chosen each time. After performing a series of tests, Dr. Varnalidis chooses the most appropriate method (conservative or surgical) in order to achieve the desired result and minimize the risk of future recurrence.

Safeguarding your health is my number one priority.

Dr. Varnalidis always discusses and explains each procedure step by step. He also offers extensive post-surgery advice and is here to answer any question you might have, so that a smooth recovery and the best functional and aesthetic outcome are achieved.