Dupuytren's disease is a benign, progressive fibroproliferative condition of the hand. It causes the bands of connective tissue in the palm to thicken and form nodules and cords. The cords can slowly (over months or years) contract and pull the digits towards the palm resulting in a contracture. (1)
Treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture is usually only required if the condition affects the function of your hand. Many cases are mild and don't need to be treated. The treatment used largely depends on the severity of the condition.
NHS treatment is only available if certain criteria are met as described in the BNSSG Dupuytren’s Contracture Release in Adults Policy.
In cases that require treatment, nonsurgical treatments or a minor procedure called a needle fasciotomy may be recommended.
For more severe cases, surgery is an effective and widely used treatment.
The two most common surgical procedures are an open fasciotomy and a fasciectomy.
If criteria are met then referrals should be made via the Musculoskeletal Interface (MSKI) Service which is usually available via managed referral on most EMIS systems. Referrals will be triaged, assessed and treatment offered where appropriate. If criteria for referral is not met then referrals may be returned.
(1) Dupuytren's Disease - Clinical Knowledge Summaries (November 2015)
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