Dupuytren’s contracture surgery in London

What Dupuytren’s surgery involves

The approach depends on how bent the fingers are and how much skin is involved

• Needle fasciotomy: the tight cord is divided with a fine needle through the skin, with no open wound.

• Fasciectomy: the diseased tissue is removed through a cut in the palm and finger.

• Open palm technique: part of the palm wound is left to heal on its own, which in some cases gives a better result than closing it.

• Skin graft: where the finger skin is also affected, it is replaced with a skin graft to lower the chance of the contracture returning.

Surgery usually takes 1–2.5 hours under regional or local anaesthetic, or general anaesthetic if you prefer, and is usually carried out as a day case.

Is it right for you?

Treatment may be considered if you can no longer lay your hand flat on a table, or if the bent fingers get in the way of daily tasks. It is important to have realistic expectations and to make the decision for yourself.

Dupuytren’s contracture cannot be cured, and it can return over time.

Your consultation

At your consultation Mr Oezdogan will:

• discuss what you would like to change and why

• examine you and explain which options are suitable, including non-surgical alternatives or not having surgery

• explain the benefits, risks, recovery and the possibility of further surgery in the future

• give you written information to take away

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. You will be given time to reflect before deciding, and a second consultation is offered before surgery is booked.

Risks and recovery

These are discussed in detail at your consultation and in writing. They include:

• bleeding, infection and wound healing problems

• stiffness, and fingers that do not fully straighten

• injury to the nerves or blood vessels of the finger

• skin graft not taking fully

• the contracture returning, and the possible need for further surgery

• rarely, complex regional pain syndrome

A bulky dressing stays on for 24–72 hours, then a smaller wound dressing. Stitches are removed after 14 days. Most people return to desk work after 1–2 weeks. A splint is worn at night for 4–6 weeks, depending on how severe the contracture was before surgery. Hand therapy is often part of recovery, and Mr Oezdogan will arrange a referral.

You should not drive until the wound has healed and you have full strength and control of your hand, as driving too early can put you and others at risk. It is also worth checking with your car insurer.

Surgery aims to straighten the affected fingers and improve hand function, but individual results vary and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.

Where surgery takes place

Consultations and hand surgery take place at Highgate Hospital (Nuffield Health) and The London Welbeck Hospital. Day-case procedures take place at Chase Lodge Hospital, Mill Hill.

Frequently asked questions

What causes Dupuytren’s contracture?

The cause is not fully understood. It often runs in families, and it is more common in men and with increasing age.

Is it covered by insurance?

Usually, subject to your policy. Self-pay is also available.

Which treatment is best?

It depends on how bent the fingers are, which joints are affected and the skin. Needle fasciotomy has a quicker recovery, while surgery tends to last longer.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send an enquiry through the Contact page.

Can it come back?

Yes. Dupuytren’s can return in the same or other fingers, and further treatment may be needed.

Do you treat patients under 18?

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over.

To discuss Dupuytren's surgery, book a consultation with Mr Oezdogan.

Discuss your options