020 3576 5296
Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm
(New enquiries only)
HCA UK Outpatients & Diagnostics The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9BS
Click to call for new patient enquiry If you are an existing patient please call the consultant directly. You can find their direct number on their consultants page.
Dupuytren’s disease, also known as Dupuytren’s contracture, is a progressive condition that affects the connective tissue in the palm of the hand. This disorder leads to the formation of thickened, scar-like tissue beneath the skin, causing the fingers to bend inward towards the palm, resulting in difficulty straightening them. While Dupuytren’s disease primarily affects the hands, it can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the feet.
At London Bridge Orthopaedics we have three expert hand specialists who regularly treat this condition.
In this blog, we will explore the anatomy, causes, symptoms and management options for Dupuytren’s disease and contracture.
To understand Dupuytren’s disease, it is essential to first grasp the anatomy of the hand. The hand is a complex structure composed of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue, all working together to facilitate movement and dexterity. The palm of the hand contains a dense network of fibrous tissue called the palmar fascia, which provides support and stability to the hand and fingers. In individuals with Dupuytren’s disease, this palmar fascia becomes thickened and contracted, leading to the characteristic bending of the fingers.
It is unclear what the exact cause of Dupuytren’s disease is, but several risk factors have been identified, including:
The underlying mechanism of injury in Dupuytren’s disease involves the abnormal proliferation of fibroblasts, specialised cells responsible for producing collagen and other components of connective tissue.
In individuals with Dupuytren’s disease, these fibroblasts become overactive, leading to the excessive production of collagen and the formation of fibrous nodules and cords within the palmar fascia. As these cords contract and tighten over time, they pull the affected fingers into a flexed or bent position, resulting in the characteristic contracture seen in Dupuytren’s disease.
Many of the symptoms of Dupuytren’s disease typically develop gradually and may include:
Diagnosing Dupuytren’s disease is usually based on a combination of understanding a patient’s medical history, a thorough physical examination of the hands, and imaging studies. During the physical examination, your consultant will assess the degree of finger contracture, palpate for nodules or cords in the palm, and evaluate the patient’s range of motion.
Imaging modalities such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to visualise the extent of fibrous tissue involvement and assess the severity of the condition.
While there is no cure for Dupuytren’s disease, nonsurgical management options may help alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of contracture.
In advanced cases of Dupuytren’s contracture where nonsurgical treatments are ineffective or the contracture is severe, surgical intervention may be necessary to release the tight bands of tissue and restore finger mobility.
Dupuytren’s disease and contracture can significantly impact hand function and quality of life for affected individuals.
If you are suffering for any of the symptoms described above or have an issue with your hand or wrist please get in touch with us to book an appointment with one of our Hand and Wrist Consultants.
You can book an appointment with any of our Hand and Wrist consultants by calling our booking team or filling out an online appointment request today
Recent articles
2018 Winter Olympics Brings Attention to Winter Injuries – Even for Pros!
The Winter Olympics are in full swing at PyeongChang and Team GB is doing their absolute best to do Britain proud. But as athletes battle it out to ensure their country gains the most medals, we are also reminded of ...
Read more