Dupuytren's contracture, is a progressive hand disease that causes the fingers to bend towards the palm of the hand as a result of thickening and shortening of the connective tissue in the palm of the hand over time. The ring and pinky fingers are most commonly affected. The disease usually has a slow course and may manifest itself as stiffness, nodules or banding in the palm in the initial period. Over time, the inability to fully open the fingers may adversely affect daily life activities and hand functions.
Dupuytren's contracture treatment is planned individually according to the stage of the disease and the degree of limitation of movement in the fingers. While regular follow-up may be sufficient in the early stages, surgical intervention or minimally invasive treatment methods may be preferred in advanced cases. The main aim of the treatment is to increase the range of motion of the fingers, restore hand functions and improve the patient's quality of life. In surgical treatment, the thickened connective tissue is removed through incisions extending from the hand foot to the fingers.
Dupuytren's contracture surgery can be performed under local, regional or general anaesthesia. The average duration of the operation is between 30-60 minutes. In most patients, discharge is possible after hospitalisation on the same day or overnight. Patients can usually return to their daily lives in a short time; however, splinting may be required for a while during the healing process. In addition, physiotherapy and rehabilitation is recommended for 1-3 months in the postoperative period.
