Dupuytren’s Contracture

Omar Saleem, MD, MsPT

Dr. Omar Saleem specializes in the treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition that causes thickening and shortening of the connective tissue in the palm, leading to bending of the fingers towards the palm. This progressive condition can impair hand function and significantly affect daily activities.

Diagnosis

Dr. Saleem’s diagnostic approach for Dupuytren’s contracture includes:

Clinical Examination: Assessing the patient’s hand for nodules or thickened tissue, as well as evaluating the degree of finger flexion and function.
Assessment of Severity: Using the “table top test” to determine the extent of the contracture, which helps guide treatment options.

Treatment Options

Treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture may vary based on the severity of the condition:

Non-Surgical Management: For early-stage contractures, Dr. Saleem may recommend:
- Observation: Monitoring the condition if it is not significantly affecting function.
- Hand Therapy: Providing exercises and splinting to maintain mobility and flexibility.
Surgical Intervention: For more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary, which may involve:
- Fasciectomy: Removing the affected tissue to restore finger movement.
- Needle Aponeurotomy: A minimally invasive procedure that involves using a needle to break the thickened tissue.

Rehabilitation and Prevention

Post-treatment, Dr. Saleem emphasizes rehabilitation strategies:

Rehabilitation Programs: Tailored therapy to improve hand function and prevent stiffness following surgery.
Patient Education: Informing patients about self-care techniques and the importance of early intervention to slow disease progression.