Exploring Effective Treatments for Dupuytren's Contracture
This article examines various treatments for Dupuytren's contracture, from early-stage non-invasive methods like injections and stretching to advanced surgical options. Recognizing early symptoms can help manage the condition effectively and preserve hand function. Procedures such as enzyme injections and needle aponeurotomy offer less invasive alternatives to traditional surgery, with tailored approaches depending on disease severity.
Dupuytren’s contracture causes fingers to curl inward, leading to hand deformities that can impair daily tasks. It impacts the fascia, the connective tissue beneath the skin of the palms and fingers. Over time, the fascia's fibers tighten, pulling the fingers inward.
Symptoms include: Small lumps and nodules in the palm that may be tender initially, gradually progressing into thickened bands of tissue. These bands cause fingers to bend, complicating movement. Recognizing these signs early helps prevent severe disability. Below are common treatment options:
Non-invasive approaches are preferred in early stages. Gentle stretching exercises, recommended after consulting a healthcare professional, may improve mobility.
Anti-inflammatory injections can reduce swelling around nodules but are less effective in advanced stages with hardened tissues.
Enzyme injections involve delivering enzymes to break down the contracted tissue, often coupled with stretching to straighten fingers. Usually, two injections are necessary with temporary side effects like swelling or bruising.
Radiation therapy employs low-energy radiation to halt nodule development, potentially preventing symptom progression, though it is a less common option.
Surgical treatments are reserved for advanced cases affecting hand function:
Open surgery involves removing or dividing the thickened tissue with an incision, sometimes requiring a skin graft for optimal healing.
Needle aponeurotomy is a minimally invasive procedure where a needle is used to cut the diseased tissue, offering quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
