Dupuytren’s contractureis a condition that causes tight tissue to form in the palm of the hand and fingers.
For this reason, many people with this condition seek treatments to help improve the function of the hand.
Different treatments may have different risks.
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Here are some of the more common complications that can occur fortreatment of Dupuytren’s contracture.
Recurrence
Recurrence of Dupuytren’s is almost a guarantee after treatment for contracture.
Dupuytren’s disease is a condition that leads to a contracture developing.
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Treatment of the symptom (the contracture) does not eradicate the underlying problem (the condition).
Therefore, over time, the problem is likely to come back.
However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.
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With any invasive treatment, the nerve can be injured.
When a nerve injury occurs, the finger can develop tingling ornumbnessand this can be a permanent problem.
Certainly, nerve injury is best avoided by having treatment with a healthcare provider skilled in the selected treatment.
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A surgeon who regularly performs the needle aponeurotomy is likely to have a similar chance of causing nerve damage.
Pain
Pain after treatment is a frustrating problem.
In general, Dupuytren’s contracture is an annoying problem, but not a painful problem.
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However, up to 20 percent of people report significant pain after treatment of the condition.
The hand and fingers are full of nerve endings and prone to developing discomfort after treatment.
Pain after treatment from Dupuytren’s contracture can often be improved with specific therapeutic activities.
For many people, working with an occupational therapist or hand therapist can be beneficial.
These are individuals who have specific training and helping to restore normal function to the hands and fingers.
Skin Tears
Skin damage is surprisingly common after treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture.
During surgery, sometimes a skin graft is necessary to close wounds.
After collagenase injections or needle aponeurotomy, the skin may tear and holes may open.
These openings in the skin can become infected and painful.
Scar Tissue
Scar tissue is a result of any punch in of invasive treatment.
With less invasive treatment, less scar tissue typically forms.
With more invasive treatments, more scar tissue can form.
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