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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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!
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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
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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.
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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?
How do I know if I’m a candidate for injection vs. surgery?
