What a Dupuytren’s Fasciectomy Can Achieve
Dupuytren’s disease is a condition affecting the fascia in the palm of the hand. It often begins with nodules beneath the skin. Over time, this tissue can form cords that tighten and pull one or more fingers into a bent position. This can make everyday activities such as putting on gloves or placing the hand in a pocket more difficult.
A fasciectomy removes the diseased fascia, allowing the fingers to straighten and improve overall hand function. The degree of correction depends on the type and severity of the contracture and how long it has been present.
Your Surgical Journey
Your surgical journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Collins at The Surgery. This provides time to assess your symptoms, examine your hand and discuss your goals and expectations in detail.
Surgery for Dupuytren’s contracture is typically performed as a day procedure under general anaesthetic. An incision is made in the palm and affected finger, often in a zig-zag pattern, to allow careful removal of the diseased fascia while protecting surrounding structures. In some cases, a skin graft may be required if the overlying skin is significantly involved.
Recovery and Aftercare
Some swelling and stiffness are expected after surgery. A splint is typically worn in the early post-operative period to support the hand and protect the surgical site. Hand therapy is routinely recommended to restore movement, strength and function.
Driving is usually possible after one to two weeks, once you can safely control the vehicle and perform emergency manoeuvres comfortably. Return to work depends on the nature of your role. Desk-based work is often possible within one to two weeks, while more physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Is a Dupuytren’s Fasciectomy Right for You?
You may be suitable for a fasciectomy if you have developed a contracture that prevents you from straightening one or more fingers or if symptoms are interfering with daily activities.
A consultation with Dr Collins allows for a personalised assessment of your symptoms and function, and an opportunity to discuss the most appropriate management approach for you, including whether surgery is indicated.
Dupuytren’s Surgery in Dunedin with Dr Anne Collins
Frequently Asked Questions
Dupuytren’s disease is a condition affecting the fascia in the palm of the hand. It often begins with small nodules beneath the skin, which can develop into cords that pull one or more fingers into a bent position. As the condition progresses, it can interfere with everyday activities and hand function.
The rate of progression varies between individuals. In some patients it remains stable and does not progress beyond the nodule stage. In others it may progress more rapidly and affect multiple fingers.
The most common procedure is a fasciectomy. This involves removing the diseased fascia through carefully placed incisions in the palm and affected finger. In some cases a skin graft may be required if the overlying skin is significantly involved.
Surgery is considered when a contracture prevents the fingers from straightening or results in functional difficulties. This includes activities such as putting on gloves, shaking hands and placing the hand in a pocket.
A less invasive option is a needle fasciotomy. This involves dividing the Dupuytren’s cord through the skin under local anaesthetic. It may be suitable in selected cases but is associated with a higher recurrence rate and is not appropriate for all patterns of disease.
Some swelling and stiffness are expected after surgery. A splint is worn in the early post-operative period and may be continued at night for several weeks. Keeping the hand elevated during the first few days helps reduce swelling and improve comfort. When resting, the hand should be kept above the level of the heart where possible. Hand therapy is routinely recommended to restore movement and optimise function.
Return to work depends on the nature of your role. Desk-based work is often possible within one to two weeks, while more physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Driving is usually possible after one to two weeks, once you can safely control the vehicle and perform emergency manoeuvres comfortably.
All surgery carries some degree of risk. Potential risks include pain, bleeding, infection, adverse scarring, stiffness, nerve or vessel injury, complex regional pain syndrome, incomplete correction, recurrence or the need for further surgery.
The degree of correction depends on the severity and duration of the contracture. In some cases full straightening is possible, while in others there may be a residual bend, particularly if the disease has been present for a long time.
Yes. Outcomes vary depending on the duration and severity of the disease, individual healing and adherence to post-operative care. Expected outcomes, risks and limitations are discussed in detail during your consultation.
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