Treatment Options
Many different treatments for Dupuytren's disease have been used and can be divided into two major categories, invasive and non-invasive.
Invasive treatments include:
- Injections of corticosteroids, 5-fluorouracil, and purified clostridial collagenase into the nodule or cord.
- Surgery is the most common treatment for Dupuytren's disease when contracture of the fingers has begun. There are two common procedures. First is a fasciectomy in which the diseased tissue or the entire palmar fascia is removed. Second is a fasciotomy where the disease tissue is not removed, but cut or punctured which is often done with a needle. In the most severe cases amputation of the fingers may be performed.
Non-invasive options include:
- Transdermal Verapamil 15% Gel
- Stretching
- Splinting
- Radiation
Most doctors agree that a non-invasive approach to treating Dupuytren's disease should be considered first given the high rate of recurrence from surgery. Invasive treatments and surgery are usually reserved for the most severe cases.