Dupuytrens Contracture Newark

Dupuytren’s contracture is a hand deformity that usually develops slowly, over years. Dupuytren’s contracture affects a layer of tissue that lies under the skin of your palm. Knots of tissue form under the skin; eventually forming a thick cord that can pull one or more of your fingers into a bent position. Once this occurs, the fingers affected by Dupuytren’s contracture cannot be straightened completely, which can complicate everyday activities such as placing your hands in your pockets, putting on gloves or shaking hands.

A number of treatments are available to slow the progression of Dupuytren’s contracture and relieve symptoms, and the board certified plastic surgeons of Advanced Plastic Surgery Center in Newark, Delaware are able to assist you with your options.

Symptoms

Dupuytren’s contracture typically progresses slowly, over years. It usually begins as a thickening of the skin on the palm of your hand. As Dupuytren’s contracture progresses, the skin on the palm of your hand may appear puckered or dimpled. A firm lump of tissue may form on your palm. This lump may be sensitive to the touch but usually isn’t painful.

In later stages of Dupuytren’s contracture, cords of tissue form under the skin on your palm and may extend up to your fingers. As these cords tighten, your fingers may be pulled toward your palm, sometimes severely. The ring finger and pinky are most commonly affected, though the middle finger also may be involved.

Management

If the disease progresses slowly, causes no pain and has little impact on your ability to use your hands for everyday tasks, you may not need treatment. Instead, you may choose to wait and see if Dupuytren’s contracture progresses.

However, most often, surgery in indicated, removing the tissue in your palm affected by the disease. The main advantage to surgery is that it results in a more complete joint release. During the healing process, physical therapy will be prescribed to assist with your recovery.

Ready or Your Next Step…

Advanced Plastic Surgery Center & Nouveau Cosmetic Center located in Newark, Delaware, is convenient to Wilmington, Elkton Maryland, Chester County Pennsylvania, and Southern New Jersey. Our well trained staff and highly qualified surgeons are available to assist you with your concerns. Our surgeons use the latest in surgical technology to provide patients with the finest medical care.