Review on Dupuytren’s Contracture Introduction A Dupuytren’s contracture was first discovered in the 1600s and bears the name of a French surgeon who reported on the contracture in the Lancet in 1834.
Review on Dupuytren’s Contracture A Dupuytren’s contracture was first discovered in the 1600s and bears the name of a French surgeon who reported on the contracture in the Lancet in 1834. The mechanism behind the formation of a Dupuytren contracture involves the formation of a nodule within the palmar portion of the hand that leads to skin tightness. The tension provided by the nodule can form a cord within the palm that leads to contractures of the MCP and PIP joints.
The cords found in the palm of the hand are compromised of Type III collagen which differs from the Type I collagen that makes up the normal palmar fascia. Case Vignette A 55 year old male is complaining of thick band like lesions in the center of his palm of the right hand. He says that he is struggling to straighten out his fourth digit due to the tightness in the band.
He has had no injury or trauma. Which of the following could be used to treat the band and contracture? A) Collagenase injection B) Cortisone injection over the A1 pulley C) Finger splint D) Physical therapy with focus on soft tissue Tubiana staging for Dupuytren contracture Diagnosis Male patients in their 50s are the predominant demographic at risk for developing a Dupuytren contracture.
Most of the time, patients will be pain free but some will complain of pain with gripping as the contracture progresses. Physical exam will aid in making the diagnosis of a Dupuytren contracture. A palpable band will be found within the palmar fascia.
A palpable band will not be palpated with a trigger finger, which is sometimes confused with a Dupuytren contracture. Once a Dupuytren contracture has been found, providers should look for other associated fibromatoses within the plantar fascia, penis, and dorsal hands. A Dupuytren contracture can be staged using the Tubiana staging criteria.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to review on dupuytren's contracture, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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