Dupuytrens Surgery

Dupuytren’s Disease (or Dupuytren’s contracture) is an inherited condition which primarily affects the hands although it can rarely affect other parts of the body. It causes thickening of the tissue under the skin on the palms of the hands. Over time this can the fingers to bend over and affect the function of your hands. Surgery can improve your function. There are two main surgical treatments available which are needle fasciotomy or fasciectomy.

Needle fasciotomy is typically performed as a day case procedure under local anaesthesia via a tiny incision. It can achieve great immediate improvements in the movement of your fingers. You will have a small dressing and will be able to use your hand later that same day. If you are suitable for it needle fasciotomy has the advantage of minimal “downtime” meaning you can return to work and normal activities quickly. Often within a week.

Fasciectomy is usually perfomed as day case procedure under local or general anaesthesia. This is a more involved procedure which has a longer downtime. Typically three to four weeks before returning to normal activity.  However it is usually able to achieve a better and longer lasting improvement in the range of movement than needle fasciotomy.

Mr Powell can review your individual case and advise you about which procedure would suit you best.