Dupuytren’s contracture is a common that causes the fingers to become permanently retracted in the palm, because of a thickening of the tough connective tissues in the hand (fascia).

Causes of Dupuytren’s contracture

Usually, this condition is genetically transmitted. Sometimes, it seems to be precipitated by trauma or an injury.


Dupuytren’s contracture is usually painless except at its early stage. It starts with a simple thickening of the fascia of the palm, and the palm feels hardened and bumpy. These nodules can be painful but over time, pain goes away. The condition progresses and cord like structures develop in the palm and progressively pull the fingers towards the palm.


History and clinical examination are all that is required to diagnose this condition.

Functional treatment

As long as the patient is able to open the hand fully, surgery is not required.


Surgical treatment is often required to improve hand function and can be done with multiple small incisions in the hand to release and remove the diseased tissues. In some cases, percutaneous needle treatment, without excision of diseased tissues can be offered.

Hand therapy is a very important part of the treatment and must not be neglected to maximize results.

Recurrence or extension of the disease is likely, and sometimes a secondary surgery is required. Postoperative evolution varies a lot between patients, depending on personal risk factors.

*Results may vary