Dupuytren’s disease is a chronic, progressive condition that usually affects the patient’s fingers. Over time, this disease causes the affected fingers to bend toward the palm, which makes it difficult to complete normal daily activities. Dr. Edward Diao offers effective surgical treatment to patients struggling with Dupuytren’s disease. To learn more about the benefits of surgery for this condition, please contact Dr. Edward Diao in Union Square, San Francisco, California, to schedule a consultation.
Dupuytren's Disease Q & A
What is Dupuytren’s disease?
Dupuytren’s disease, which may also be called Dupuytren’s contracture, is a type of hand deformity. If you have this condition, you won’t be able to straighten one or more of your fingers completely. Instead, they’ll bend toward your palm and be held in that position permanently. Although this condition can affect any finger, it’s most common in the ring and pinky fingers.
Why does this condition occur?
Dupuytren’s disease is felt to be primarily genetically determined and usually develops over a period of several years. It happens when the layer of tissue beneath the skin in your palm starts to form knots. Eventually, these knots create a thick cord of tissue that pulls your fingers into a bent position.
What happens during surgery for Dupuytren’s disease?
If your disease is advanced, Dr. Diao may recommend surgery. The goal of the procedure is to release the pull on your fingers so you can straighten them normally. Surgery provides longer-lasting results than the other treatment options available to patients with this condition.
Most people with Dupuytren’s disease will benefit from a minimally invasive procedure designed to simply release the pressure by removing affected tissue. However, in some cases, this procedure will fail.
If the minimally invasive surgical treatment fails, Dr. Diao may recommend a more invasive procedure in which he removes all of the tissue in the palm that’s likely to ever be affected by the condition. He then uses a skin graft to cover the wound.
Is there a non-operative treatment for Dupuytren's disease?
There is an injectable enzyme coagulase, that can be administered in a series of office visits. It is useful in selective cases of Dupuytren's disease.
How do patients know if they need surgery?
Surgery isn’t right for everyone with Dupuytren’s disease, and other treatments are available. For example, if you have a mild case of Dupuytren’s disease, you may benefit from needling, which is a procedure used to break the cord that causes your fingers to bend. Enzyme injections may also help.
If you have this condition, the best way to know if you need surgery is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Diao to discuss your case in detail. Dr. Diao can explain all of the benefits and risks of the procedure so you can make the right choice.
