Dupuytren's contracture

What it is:
is an abnormal thickening of the tissue just beneath the skin of the palm. It often starts with nodules at the base of the digits. In some patients, firm cords will develop under the skin, and gradually may cause the fingers to bend. The cause of Dupuytren's disease is unknown. It is more common in men over age 40. Dupuytren's disease is usually painful. The disease may first be noticed because of difficulty placing the hand flat on a flat surface. Progression is unpredictable.

Treatment:
Surgical treatment is needed only when it is no longer possible to place the hand flat on a table otherwise only observation is needed for nodules and cords that are not contracted.
Different surgical procedures have been described to correct finger position. Despite surgery, the disease process may recur and the fingers may begin to bend into the palm once again.
Surgery is usually performed in day surgery regimen under upper arm anaesthesia (brachial plexus).
Hand therapy and splint after the operation are mandatory to achieve good results.