About Percutaneous Dupuytren's Contracture Release
Dupuytren's contracture is a thickening of the tissue under the skin of the palm. Over time, it can form firm cords that pull one or more fingers, most often the ring and small fingers, into a bent position that makes it hard to lay the hand flat, shake hands, or put on gloves.
In a percutaneous release, Dr. Chen uses a needle to make many small cuts along the cord, weakening it until the finger can be gently straightened. Ultrasound helps show the cord and nearby nerves and tendons so they can be avoided.
This approach is less invasive than open surgery and typically allows a quicker return to hand use. Dupuytren's disease is an ongoing condition, and cords can return over time, sometimes needing another treatment.
What happens during treatment
- 1.
Dr. Chen examines the hand, measures how much each finger is bent, and uses ultrasound to map the cord and nearby structures.
- 2.
The skin over the cord is numbed at several points.
- 3.
A needle is used to make small cuts through the cord at multiple spots along its length.
- 4.
The finger is gently straightened to break the weakened cord, and a small bandage is applied.
- 5.
You may be given a night splint and hand exercises to help maintain the correction.
Who may be a good candidate
- People with Dupuytren's cords that bend a finger enough to interfere with daily tasks.
- People with a well-defined cord in the palm or at the base of the finger.
- Patients who prefer an office procedure with a quick return to hand use.
- People with recurrence after an earlier treatment who want to avoid open surgery, when the anatomy allows.
Recovery
Most people use the hand for light activities within a day or two. Small skin tears can occur where the cord was released and usually heal within a week or two with simple dressings. Night splinting and stretching for a period help maintain the straighter position.
Risks and limits
Risks include bruising, swelling, skin tears, infection, and rarely injury to a finger nerve or tendon, which careful technique and ultrasound help avoid. The cord can return over time, since the release does not change the underlying condition. Severe contractures, especially at the middle finger joint, may not fully straighten, and some people are better served by open surgery, which we help coordinate.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about Dupuytren's Release
- Will my finger stay straight after the release?
- Many people keep a meaningful improvement, but Dupuytren's disease can come back over time. Night splinting and stretching help, and a repeat release is often possible if the cord returns.
- Does the procedure hurt?
- The palm is numbed first, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. The hand may be sore and bruised for several days afterward.
- Which fingers can be treated?
- The ring and small fingers are most commonly treated, but other fingers with a clear cord may also be candidates. Dr. Chen will review which cords are best suited to a needle release.