At Shoreline Orthopaedics, our orthopaedic surgeons use a truly collaborative approach so our patients have the benefit of multiple expert opinions, without having to go elsewhere to obtain them.
Shoreline Orthopaedics provides more comprehensive services, state-of-the-art options, technologies and techniques than anyone else in the area.
The following information is provided to help you understand what you can expect from us regarding policies and procedures, and also what is expected of you before and after treatment or procedures.
The following information is provided to help you gain a better understanding of anatomy, terminology, certain orthopaedic procedures, and more. If you have any questions, feel free to ask your physician.
Dupuytren's contracture is a thickening of the fibrous tissue layer underneath the skin of the palm and fingers. It is a painless condition and not dangerous, however, the thickening and tightening (contracture) of this fibrous tissue can cause the fingers to curl (flex). Dupuytren's contracture usually progresses very slowly. It may not become troublesome for years, and may never advance beyond lumps in the palm. There is currently no treatment to stop, cure or prevent Dupuytren's contracture.
Symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture usually occur very gradually, and may include:
Dupuytren's contracture is a hereditary condition that occurs most commonly in families of Northern European (English, Irish, Scottish, French, Dutch) or Scandinavian (Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish) ancestry. Other factors associated with a greater risk of developing Dupuytren's contracture include certain medical conditions such as diabetes or seizures, and alcohol consumption. The frequency of occurrence increases with age.
Your doctor may recommend nonsurgical treatment to provide relief, however splinting does not prevent increased contracture in the finger and forceful stretching of the contracted finger rarely helps.
When contracture starts to progress out into the finger, or when you can no longer place your hand flat on a table, your orthopaedic surgeon may recommend surgery. During this procedure, the thickened bands are divided or removed to help restore finger motion. In some cases, the wound is left open and allowed to heal gradually. Skin grafting may be needed, but this is rare.
With any surgery there are some risks, and these vary from person to person. Complications are typically minor, treatable and unlikely to affect your final outcome. Your orthopaedic surgeon will speak to you prior to surgery to explain any potential risks and complications that may be associated with your procedure.