Dupuytren's disease (also called: Dupuytren's contracture, Morbus Dupuytren, or palmar fibromatosis) is a slow developing, usually painless, connective tissue disorder affecting the hand. It causes a thickening and shortening of the tissue beneath the skin on the palm of the hand. Eventually this can result in one or more of the fingers being pulled toward the palm, making it difficult or impossible to extend the fingers. Its cause is not known, although heredity and injury can play a role. It occurs more often in men than women.

In the early stages you may see or feel a small lump in the palm of the hand, usually near the fingers. As the disease advances, a fibrous cord develops, pulling one or more fingers toward your palm; it usually affects the ring finger and/or pinky finger.

Although this condition does not usually cause pain, it can affect your quality of life by making it difficult, if not impossible , to flatten your hand, thereby affecting your ability to do simple things like wash your hands or grip things properly.

Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical examination. This may include x-rays or other diagnostic tests. Depending on the severity of the condition and how long it has persisted, treatment options could include both surgical and non-surgical plans.

Although renowned for his surgical ability, Dr. Cohen is a firm believer in using conservative, non-operative treatment plans before considering surgery. For Dupuytren's disease, this could include medication, splints, and range-of-motion exercises.

Read and listen (audio quotes), to what just a few of Dr. Cohen’s patients have said:

(Note: be sure to click on the "stop" button before starting a new audio comment)

Steve from Acton, California had suffered from Dupuytren's contracture, which left the little finger on his left hand curled into a tight "C", for 30 years before going to see Dr. Cohen. After Dr. Cohen performed surgery on his hand, Steve is ready to "go to the mat for this guy." Hear his description of the amazing results.

Also - view Steve's case in our "before and after surgery gallery". Steve's Dupuytren's photos are in Surgery Case - 22 and view another Dupuytren's case in Surgery Case - 23.  

 

Bruce from El Segundo went to see Dr. Cohen for Dupuytren's contracture, which had left him unable to straighten the little finger on his left hand. He had been advised by another doctor that surgery would probably only straighten it about 70%. When he heard about Dr. Cohen from a friend, he went to see him and was delighted to hear that Dr. Cohen felt they could expect much better results. Hear his story of how Dr. Cohen pushed for a more "perfect" outcome.

Want to learn more about Dupuyten's Disease?  Here are some resources:

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
• Mayo Clinic