Dupytren's disease (or Dupytren's contracture) is a thickening of the layer of tissue in the palm or fingers which lies underneath the skin (known as the fascia). As the tissue becomes thick it can contract pulling the fingers down into a flexed position.
The cause of Dupytren's disease is not known.
Dupytren's disease can affect any or all of the fingers and the thumb but it most commonly it effects the ring finger followed by the little finger and the middle, index and thumb less commonly.
If the Dupytren's disease just consists of nodules in the palm or fingers not associated with flexion deformity then treatment is not required.
If Dupytren's disease progresses to the point where your finger is beginning to be pulled in treatment is indicated.
Once this occurs the milder the contracture is the better. If contractures are left until they are advanced they may not respond to any form of treatment or the correction may be incomplete.
Options are injections, needle fasciotomy and surgery.
The decision on which is the best option is individual and requires history, examination and discussion about your priorities and personal situation.
