'Surgery is the best option for long term benefit from Dupuytren’s contracture'

This post is about Dupuytren's contracture:

Dupuytren's contracture is when one or more fingers bend in towards your palm. There's no cure, but your fingers can be straightened with surgery if it's severe.

Symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture

Dupuytren's contracture mainly affects the ring and little fingers. It's common to have it in both hands at the same time.

It tends to get slowly worse over many months or years.

It's not usually painful, but it can affect how you use your hand.

Dupuytren's contracture happens when the tissue under the skin near your fingers becomes thicker and less flexible.

The exact cause is unknown, but it's been linked to:

• having a family history of the condition
• smoking
• drinking lots of alcohol
• having diabetes or epilepsy

You can read more on the NHS website here and also the British Dupuytren's Society here

The thought behind this post was prompted by an article seen on The Diabetes Diet Blog here and thought it one to share!

"Adapted from BMJ 24 Feb 2024

A randomised controlled trial by Mikko Raisanen in Finland compared treatments for Dupuytren’s contracture.

This condition is common in those of Viking ancestry. Famous afflicted people include Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, Frank Sinatra, actor Bill Nighy and Banjo Player Joe Bonsall. 

Thickening and tightening of the tendons in the palms of the hands occurs. Progression is usually slow, but as the pinky finger and others become unable to extend, it can cause real difficulty in dressing and holding objects.

Three treatments were compared: surgery, needle fasciotomy and collagenase injections.

At the three month point, all seemed equally successful with 70% improved considerably, but after two years, surgery was 78% effective compared to 50% and 65% respectively.

Diabetics are prone to this condition too, as tendon glycation worsens the problem."

Read more about 'How Diabetes Can Lead To Tendon Damage' here

Had you heard of Dupuytren’s contracture? Perhaps you have a family member with it?

Please be aware

Articles / studies within this blog are provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, including medication, you should contact your Doctor/local health care provider.

All the best Jan