Dupuytren's contracture of the hand is a pathological change of the taut subcutaneous tissue/connective tissue of the palms of the hand. The disorder results in contracting bands of connective tissue and the formation of nodes, which are often initially mistaken for calluses. Over time, the affected bands of connective tissue may contract to the extent that the one or more affected fingers can no longer be straightened.
Dupuytren's contracture of the ring finger and little finger of the left hand. The base joint and middle joint can no longer be straightened.
At present, there is no effective drug-based or conservative physiotherapeutic measure to straighten permanently an affected finger, particularly if both the base and middle joint are affected. For this reason, an operation should be performed for the radical removal of the affected connective tissue (open fasciectomy); skin transplants may be necessary if the skin had also been affected.
The main problem associated with the operation is the risk of damage to blood vessels or nerves, which is significantly increased if the affected finger has already been operated on previously.
In terms of aftercare, the operated finger has to be immobilized in a splint for 6-8 weeks to prevent unfavourable scarring. Regular mobility exercises out of the splint must be kept up for a longer period of time.