Dupuytren's contracture surgery at OpenMed Warsaw
Dupuytren's contracture is a hand condition that gradually limits the ability to straighten the fingers. Initially it may manifest as a small thickening in the palm, but over time it leads to permanent bending of one or more fingers. If you notice that you cannot fully straighten a finger or your hand is beginning to impair daily activities, we invite you to OpenMed in Warsaw. Our specialists qualify patients for surgical treatment of Dupuytren's contracture and guide them through the entire therapy process.
This condition involves abnormal growth of connective tissue within the palmar fascia. Thickenings and fibrous cords form, which shorten and cause finger flexion - most commonly of the ring and little fingers. Dupuytren's contracture is not an inflammatory condition or tendon disease. It is a chronic process that progresses gradually and may have a genetic basis. It more commonly affects men over 40, but also occurs in women.
Symptoms and indications for surgical treatment
The first symptom is often a palpable nodule in the palm. Over time, fibrous cords appear and finger contracture increases. The patient has difficulty placing the hand flat on a table, and performing precise tasks becomes limited. The condition usually does not cause severe pain, which is why it is often disregarded until there is clear impairment of hand function.
Our doctors at OpenMed qualify for surgery when the contracture impairs daily functioning or is progressing. The degree of advancement is determined by the range of flexion in the finger joints and the impact of the disease on hand function. Early consultation allows treatment to be planned at the optimal time.
Consultations for Dupuytren's contracture surgery and hand function assessment
Book a visit if finger contracture is limiting hand movement and you need qualification for surgery or rehabilitation planning.
What does diagnostics and qualification look like at OpenMed?
Diagnosis of Dupuytren's contracture is based primarily on clinical examination. During the consultation, our specialists assess the degree of finger flexion, tissue elasticity and hand function. In most cases, extensive imaging studies are not necessary, but additional tests may be ordered if there are doubts.
During the visit, we discuss possible treatment methods, the course of the procedure, the type of anaesthesia and the recovery plan. The patient receives clear information about the effects of surgery and possible risk of complications.
What does surgical treatment of Dupuytren's contracture involve?
The aim of surgery is to remove the overgrown fibrous cords and restore the ability to straighten the fingers. The procedure is performed under regional or general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of changes and the patient's condition. The surgeon makes a precise incision in the palm, removes the altered tissue and restores proper skin tension and subcutaneous structures.
The extent of surgery depends on the advancement of the disease. In some cases, it is necessary to release several fingers or use skin plasty techniques. Our specialists select the method to achieve the best functional outcome while maintaining tissue safety.
Rehabilitation and return to function
Surgery is only one stage of treatment. Equally important is appropriately guided hand rehabilitation. After the procedure, exercises are implemented to improve range of motion and prevent re-contracture. If necessary, orthoses maintaining fingers in extension are used. Rehabilitation treatments and orthoses are also available at OpenMed.
The time to full recovery depends on the degree of disease advancement and the extent of surgery. Our doctors monitor the healing process and adjust recommendations to the stage of recovery. The aim is to restore hand function and enable safe return to work and daily activities.
FAQ - Dupuytren's contracture surgery
Surgery is considered when finger contracture impairs daily activities or is gradually worsening.
The condition is chronic and in some cases recurrence may occur, which is why follow-up and rehabilitation are important.
Healing and rehabilitation time depends on the extent of the procedure, usually involving several weeks of systematic exercises.
The procedure is performed under anaesthesia, and post-procedure discomfort is managed with appropriate pain relief.