Dupuytren's contracture, often referred to simply as Dupuytren's, is a condition that affects the connective tissue in the palm of the hand. It causes the tissue, known as the palmar fascia, to thicken and form tight bands of tissue that may extend into the fingers. Over time, these bands can contract, pulling the fingers into a bent position and causing difficulty with straightening them fully.
Dupuytren's contracture typically progresses slowly and can eventually interfere with hand function, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks. Treatment options may include observation, hand therapy, injections, or in more severe cases, surgical intervention to release the contracted tissue.
At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like Dupuytren's contracture, offering comprehensive care to improve hand function and quality of life for our patients.
Dupuytren's contracture arises predominantly from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, particularly prevalent among individuals of Northern European descent, suggesting a strong familial pattern in its development.
Symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture typically manifest as progressive thickening and puckering of the palm skin, formation of palpable nodules or cords beneath the skin, and gradual flexion contracture of one or more fingers, leading to difficulty in extending them fully.
Diagnosis of Dupuytren's contracture involves a thorough clinical assessment, including a detailed medical history and physical examination focusing on palpating for nodules or bands, assessing finger mobility, and evaluating functional limitations. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be employed to visualize the extent of fibrotic tissue involvement and aid in treatment planning.
Treatment options for Dupuytren's contracture encompass a spectrum of options tailored to the individual's specific needs and disease severity, ranging from conservative measures such as hand therapy, splinting, and corticosteroid injections to more invasive interventions including needle aponeurotomy, collagenase injection therapy, and surgical procedures such as fasciectomy or fasciotomy.
Despite ongoing research efforts, no definitive strategies currently exist for preventing the development of Dupuytren's contracture due to its multifactorial etiology. However, early recognition and timely intervention may help mitigate disease progression and optimize outcomes.
The postoperative recovery period following surgical intervention for Dupuytren's contracture varies depending on the extent of tissue involvement, the complexity of the procedure performed, and individual healing responses, typically ranging from several weeks to several months.
During this period, diligent adherence to postoperative care instructions and participation in hand therapy programs are essential for promoting optimal functional recovery and preventing complications.
Risks and potential complications associated with treatment approaches for Dupuytren's contracture include but are not limited to nerve or minor vascular injury, wound healing problems, postoperative pain or stiffness, and recurrence of contracture, though complications are rare.
Suffering with symptoms from Dupuytren's contracture in Maryland? Seek expert care at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Call (301) 515-0900 or schedule your appointment online to meet with a physician at our Bethesda or Germantown locations. Let our skilled team provide personalized treatment to address your condition and restore comfort and function to your hand.
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Bethesda Office
6710 A Rockledge Dr., Suite 130
Bethesda, MD 20817
Germantown Office
19847 Century Boulevard, Suite 205
Germantown, MD 20874
Rockville Office
1071 Seven Locks Rd.
Rockville, MD 20854
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The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division is your premier orthopedic clinic located in Germantown, Bethesda, and Rockville, MD, offering comprehensive care for a wide range of orthopedic conditions through PRP Therapy, Orthopedic Surgery, X-Ray, Acute Injury Management, Osteoarthritis Treatment, Dupuytren’s Contracture Management, Custom Durable Medical Equipment, Hand/Occupational Therapy, Ultrasound, Joint Injections, Physical Therapy, and Epidural Steroid Injections.
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