Dupuytren's Disease Treatment - Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Ventura

Hand Surgery: Dupuytren's Disease

Dupuytren's Disease is a condition that afflicts primarily men of Northern European descent, however women and other races can suffer from this disease. It involves the progressive development of hard, tight cords and nodules under the skin of the palm and fingers, most commonly the little and ring fingers. As the cords tighten, they cause the fingers to bend into a fixed position so that the person cannot straighten the afflicted finger. The nodules and cords can usually be felt and even seen directly underneath the skin. In the early stages of the disease, function may not be impaired. However as the Dupuytren's contracture progresses, grasping, turning, and other motions can become impaired.

The causes of Dupuytren's disease are not completely understood. There is a definite genetic component, however not all patients have a relative who is afflicted. There are also other reversible risk factors such as smoking and heavy alcohol use.

An exciting breakthrough in the treatment of this condition is the recent FDA approval of Xiaflex (collagenase) for mild to moderate disease. This treatment consists of several injections directly into the cords. The early studies are extremely promising and offer great hope for patients not able or not willing to undergo surgery. Our surgeons also offer various surgical treatments for Dupuytren's disease. The exact treatment approach will depend on your overall health, the extent of your disease, the fingers and joints affected, and the degree of skin involvement. Our hand fellowship-trained surgeon, Gil Kryger, MD, directs the hand clinic at the Kryger Institute of Plastic Surgery and will make sure that the appropriate surgical approach is chosen for you.