Understanding Dupuytren’s Disease
Dupuytren’s disease (also called Dupuytren’s contracture) is a hand condition where thickened tissue forms beneath the skin of the palm, often leading to firm nodules and tight cords that pull the fingers into a bent position. Over time, this can make it difficult—or even impossible—to fully straighten the affected fingers.
Dr. Iyengar offers both enzyme injections and surgical options to release tension, restore hand function, and help patients regain quality of life with tailored treatment options. The condition usually develops slowly and is most common in the ring and little fingers. While it isn’t typically painful, it can significantly interfere with everyday activities like gripping objects or shaking hands.
When should I consider treatment?
If you’ve noticed a firm lump or cord in your palm, or if one or more fingers are starting to bend toward your palm and don’t straighten easily, it may be time to seek treatment. Early evaluation is key, especially if the contracture is beginning to affect your hand function.
Treatment is typically recommended when the fingers can no longer lay flat on a table or when hand movement becomes restricted.
What are my treatment options?
Non-Surgical Options
In some cases, collagenase injections (enzymatic fasciotomy) can be used to weaken the tight cords in the palm. This minimally invasive approach involves injecting medication directly into the cord to soften it, followed by manual manipulation to straighten the finger.
Surgical Options
For more advanced or recurrent contractures, fasciectomy surgery may be the best option. During this procedure, Dr. Iyengar carefully removes the diseased tissue to release the contracture and restore finger extension.
The procedure is tailored to the severity of the contracture and may vary from a limited fasciectomy (removing affected cords) to more extensive reconstruction for advanced cases.
Why choose Dr. Iyengar for hand surgery?
As a fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity specialist, Dr. Iyengar has extensive experience managing complex hand conditions like Dupuytren’s. His training allows him to offer both non-surgical and surgical treatments with precision and care—helping restore hand function and quality of life.
What does recovery look like?
Recovery depends on the treatment approach. For injection therapy, patients can often return to light activity within a day or two. For surgical release, recovery takes a bit longer, typically involving a short course of hand therapy to regain strength and flexibility.
While there’s no cure for Dupuytren’s disease, treatment can dramatically improve hand function and slow progression. Some patients may experience recurrence over time, but early intervention can help maintain results.
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Check out galleryWhat our patients have to say.
Lisa R.
I have lived my entire adult life self conscious of my neck sagging and double chin. Dr. Iyengar took such good care and gave me a tight neck and for once in my life I have a jawline! I had a neck and lower face lift with lipo in my chin.
Kara D.
I have had a wonderful experience with Dr. Iyengar and his team. I appreciate his transparency achieving realistic results that are natural and what is safe for my body. Dr. Iyengar is very attentive ensuring my recovery is going well and is very responsive to questions or concerns that I have had. I love my results, it is everything that I asked for and I feel more confident than ever. I am grateful and appreciative of Dr. Iyengar and his team.
Beth S.
Dr. Iyengar is an incredible doc, he truly listened to my story and provided a plan to address all of my medical needs. After surgery, he has been providing excellent care of me and is the most accessible surgeon I have ever encountered. Having a complex medical history, I was nervous about having this surgery, but Dr. Iyengar and his whole staff have been amazing and I highly recommend them!
Lisa S.
I had a procedure to ease back and neck pain. Dr.Rajiv Iyengar. Was so amazing. His staff was thoughtful. They helped coordinate insurance. Made sure I was well informed and the surgery and results have been beyond my expectations. I suggest you shop around and then STOP when you interview Dr Iyengar. The procedure went without a hitch. He had full control of all the Medical professionals and was very thorough through the day. He is helpful and old fashioned in his bedside manner. Very pleased with results and will recommend to anyone.
Liza C.
From my very first consultation, I was blown away by the level of care and professionalism at this practice. Every single team member, from the front desk to the medical coordinators and assistants, was friendly, attentive, and truly made me feel at ease. The customer service is top-notch!
Dr. Iyengar is exceptional. His experience, skill, and depth of knowledge shine through in every interaction. His bedside manner is warm and reassuring, and he takes the time to truly listen to your goals without ever being pushy. He’s incredibly responsive and makes you feel confident and cared for from day one. Honestly, his fresh perspective combined with his expertise is a major positive!
The aftercare has also been outstanding! Thorough, diligent, and consistently supportive. I’ve felt cared for every step of the way.
My entire experience has been nothing short of excellent. I’d highly recommend this practice to anyone looking for a team that’s professional, compassionate, and truly invested in your care. They set the bar high!
Michael W
Dr Iyengar did a repair on an old eyelid surgery. Him and his staff were a pleasure to work with and I could not be happier with the results!
Laurie A.
Dr. Raj Iyengar is awesome!!! I had 3 areas of botox today (glabella, crow's feet, and forehead). I had absolutely no pain and zero bruising. He was very informative throughout the procedure, and very kind. A great experience
Christina R.
I am 6 days post brow lift, blephraplasty, nanofat transfer, and neck lipo with Renuvion, and I already see a significant difference. I am SO excited already, and I’m still healing. Dr Iyengar has an incredible bed side manner, remembers little details about his patients, and has an impeccable résumé. I made the right choice trusting him with my face!
Ron L.
I’m glad to have this doctor and his staff on my side. When I heard the words skin cancer I went through a WIDE verity of feelings. I got worse case scenario and it scared me. After some reassurance I felt much better. I’m amazed at the complexity of the surgery and how well everything went. Just 6 weeks after surgery I’m feeling much better about the future look that everyone will see when they see my smiling face. Thanks Dr. Iyengar. I’ll share photos with anyone interested.
Jenny M.
I’m incredibly grateful that I was referred to Dr. Iyengar for my breast reconstruction surgery. From the very first consultation, he has been an absolute blessing throughout the entire process. His kindness, super friendliness (a rare trait), helpfulness, caring nature, and outstanding service are truly remarkable. Additionally, his extensive knowledge and confident responses to my questions, along with his ability to treat me with personable care, make him an exceptional surgeon.
Quality care in all realms of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
We see our patients as individuals, not just cases on the schedule. Dr. Iyengar makes every effort to get to know his patients personally and thoroughly understand their goals. This personalized approach ensures that every patient receives the highest quality care and achieves the results of their dreams! Dr. Iyengar executes every procedure with precision, integrity and utmost care.
Request a consultationGot questions about treatment for Dupuytren's Disease?
What causes Dupuytren’s disease?
Is Dupuytren’s disease painful?
Can the condition come back after treatment?
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
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