Dupuytren’s disease is a condition where the finger starts to curl into the palm. Previously called the Viking disease because of a perceived Scandinavian origin, we now know that actually it affects all people, but Caucasians predominantly. It tends to run in families, and can affect the toes and other body parts aswell. For reasons we don’t understand the body lays down layers of scar tissue along some of the connective tissue (fascia) in the hand, and over time the scar tissue contracts pulling the fingers down.
In the early stages Mr Wharton can help with diagnosis. Unfortunately stretching exercises and hand therapy don’t classically help to prevent the contracture from occurring. When it becomes very bothersome Mr Wharton offers two types of treatment. For thick cords in the palm these can be divided using a needle under local anaesthetic. This disrupts the cord, and allows the finger to straighten. This procedure generally allows an immediate return to activity. However, when the cords have entered the finger it becomes less safe to use needle fasciotomy, because the position of the nerve and artery to the finger become less certain. Instead open surgery (fasciectomy) is usually advised to remove the Dupuytren’s tissue. This procedure can be conducted under general anaesthetic, regional anaesthetic (nerve block around the shoulder) or under local anaesthetic alone depending on the complexity of the case. Afterwards patients need to elevate their hand for at least five days and keep the wounds dry for 2-3 weeks. The hand therapists have a crucial role in helping rehabilitate the hand after this surgery, and in providing a splint if the finger starts to curl down again.
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If you or someone you know has suffered an injury or is experiencing pain in their hand or wrist and would like a consultant-led review, please contact us. Grosvenor Orthopaedics have extensive experience in the treatment of this condition with excellent patient outcomes.
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HAND & WRIST CONDITIONS
If you would like to learn about other hand & wrist conditions click the button below
our specialist HAND & WRIST consultants
Hand and Wrist care at Grosvenor Orthopaedics is lead by Mr Rupert Wharton who is a Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic surgeon with an NHS base at Kingston Hospital. He is further supported by the orthopaedic team here including other consultant surgeons, nurses and care staff.
Our team are well placed to manage and treat a diverse range of hand and wrist concerns utilising cutting edge diagnostic technology and treatment approaches, both surgical and conservative. Below is an overview of some of the conditions we treat but for a more thorough understanding please contact our team here
What some of our patients say
Mrs JS
Thank you to the whole team for getting me back on my feet again