Dupuytren's contracture
Overview
Dupuytren's contracture is when 1 or more fingers bend in towards your palm. There's no cure, but your fingers can be straightened with surgery if it's severe.
Symptoms
Dupuytren's contracture mainly affects the ring and little fingers. It's common to have it in both hands at the same time. It tends to get slowly worse over many months or years. It's not usually painful, but it can affect how you use your hand.
Causes
Dupuytren's contracture happens when the tissue under the skin near your fingers becomes thicker and less flexible. The exact cause is unknown, but it's been linked to: having a family history of the conditionsmokingdrinking lots of alcoholhaving diabetes or epilepsy It's not known if you can prevent it or stop it coming back.
Treatment
Dupuytren's contracture does not usually need any treatment in the early stages. If it's severe and you cannot straighten your fingers or use your hand normally, a GP may refer you to a specialist for treatment. The specialist will explain what the benefits and risks of each treatment option are. They'll tell you what to expect afterwards, including advice on exercises to do. Your finger may not be completely straight after treatment, and might not be as strong and flexible as it used to be. The contracture could also come back after a few years. There are 3 main types of treatment: surgery to remove the affected tissue in the hand (fasciectomy)using a needle to make small cuts in the affected tissue (needle fasciotomy)surgery to remove the affected tissue and skin (dermofasciectomy) If you have Dupuytren's contracture, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services for help with your condition without seeing a GP. To find out if there are any services in your area: ask the reception staff at your GP surgerycheck your GP surgery's websitecontact your integrated care board (ICB) –find your local ICBsearch online for NHS treatment for Dupuytren's contracture near you