Dupuytren’s Contracture Surgery in Melbourne
Dupuytren’s contracture surgery is a specialised hand surgical procedure designed to restore finger function and mobility in patients affected by this progressive hand condition.
At Specialist Surgical Group, our Melbourne-based hand surgeons provide comprehensive treatment for patients experiencing finger contractures that interfere with daily activities and hand function.
The procedure works by surgically removing or dividing the thickened fibrous tissue (fascia) that has formed beneath the skin of the palm and fingers. Using precise surgical techniques, we can restore normal finger extension and improve hand function.
We consult from our Essendon and Bundoora clinics, with procedures performed at accredited hospitals in Melbourne.
Call us today at (03) 9466 7338 to book a consultation.
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We are located in the heart of Essendon and Bundoora.
Do you need surgery?
Dupuytren’s contracture surgery may be appropriate for you if:
- You have a finger contracture of 30 degrees or more at the knuckle joint that affects your daily activities
- You experience functional impairment when trying to place your hand flat on a table or perform routine tasks
- Conservative treatments have not provided adequate improvement in hand function
- You have progressive worsening of finger position despite non-surgical management
- The contracture interferes with your work, hobbies, or quality of life
- You understand that while surgery can significantly improve function, some degree of recurrence may occur over time
During your initial consultation, we will assess your hand function, discuss your goals and expectations, and determine whether surgical intervention is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
Potential benefits
- Improved finger extension and mobility. Surgery can significantly restore the ability to straighten affected fingers, improving hand function in daily activities [1].
- Enhanced grip strength and dexterity. Patients typically experience improved hand strength and fine motor control following successful surgical correction [2].
- Restored functional independence. The procedure enables patients to return to activities they may have previously avoided, such as playing sports, playing musical instruments, or performing detailed work tasks [3].
- Long-term hand function preservation. Surgical intervention can prevent further deterioration and maintain hand mobility when performed at an appropriate stage of the disease [4].
- High patient satisfaction rates. Studies consistently show satisfaction rates exceeding 85% among patients undergoing surgical treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture [5].
Potential risks
- Recurrence of contracture. The condition may recur over time, with studies reporting recurrence rates of approximately 20% within 5 years following surgical treatment [6].
- Temporary swelling and stiffness. Post-operative inflammation and reduced finger movement are common during the initial recovery period and typically resolve with appropriate rehabilitation [7].
- Nerve sensitivity changes. Some patients may experience temporary numbness or altered sensation in the treated fingers, which usually improves over several months [8].
- Wound healing complications. As with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of infection, delayed healing, or scar formation that may require additional treatment [9].
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(03) 9466 7338Meet our hand surgeon
Dupuytren’s contracture surgery journey
Here’s what you can expect during your Dupuytren’s contracture surgery. Individual experiences may vary based on the specific technique required and the extent of your condition.
1. Initial consultation
During your first visit, our hand surgeon will thoroughly examine your hand, assess the degree of contracture, and discuss your symptoms and functional limitations with you.
We’ll review your medical history, explain treatment options, and develop a personalised surgical plan. Y
You’ll receive detailed information about the procedure, including recovery expectations, and have the opportunity to answer any questions you may have.
2. Pre-operative preparation
On the day of surgery, you’ll receive a local anaesthetic to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The surgical site will be carefully cleaned and prepared in a sterile environment.
Our team will position your hand optimally for surgery and ensure you’re comfortable before the procedure begins.
3. Surgical correction
Using precise microsurgical techniques, we’ll make small incisions to access the contracted tissue. The thickened fascia will be carefully removed or divided to restore finger extension.
Throughout the procedure, we prioritise protecting essential structures, such as nerves and blood vessels, while achieving optimal correction of the contracture.
4. Immediate post-operative care
Following surgery, your hand will be dressed with protective bandaging to support healing.
You’ll receive specific instructions for wound care, elevation, and gentle movement exercises.
Most patients can return home the same day, provided they have received appropriate pain management and made follow-up arrangements.
5. Early recovery and wound care
During the first 1-2 weeks, the focus will be on proper wound healing and the gradual return of basic hand function.
You’ll attend follow-up appointments for wound assessment and suture removal. Gentle exercises may be introduced to maintain finger mobility while protecting the surgical site.
6. Rehabilitation and long-term recovery
Hand therapy typically begins 2-3 weeks after surgery to optimise healing and restore full function. Our physiotherapy team will guide you through a series of progressive exercises to help you regain strength, flexibility, and coordination.
Most patients experience significant functional improvement within 6 to 12 weeks of surgery.
Book a consultation today
(03) 9466 7338Dupuytren’s contracture surgery FAQ
The procedure typically takes 30-90 minutes, depending on the complexity and number of fingers involved. Most cases are performed as day surgery under local anaesthetic, allowing you to return home the same day.
It varies based on your job requirements. Office workers may return within 1-2 weeks with modifications, while manual labourers typically need 4-6 weeks for full recovery. We’ll provide specific guidance based on your occupation.
While surgery is highly effective, Dupuytren’s disease can recur over time. Studies show that approximately 20% of patients experience some degree of recurrence within 5 years, though it is often less severe than the original condition [7].
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort for the first few days after surgery, which is well-controlled with prescribed pain medication. Pain typically decreases significantly within one week of the procedure.
Heavy lifting, gripping activities, and contact sports should be avoided for 6-8 weeks. Swimming and soaking the hand should be avoided until wounds are fully healed, typically 2-3 weeks after surgery.
Hand therapy is highly recommended and typically begins 2-3 weeks after surgery. This specialised rehabilitation helps optimise your recovery, restore function, and prevent complications like stiffness or scar tissue formation.
We typically recommend treating one hand at a time to ensure proper healing and maintain functional independence during recovery. The second hand can usually be treated 6-8 weeks after the first procedure.
While some scarring is inevitable, we use careful surgical techniques to minimise visible marks. Scars typically fade significantly over 6-12 months and are often well-concealed within the natural creases of the hand.
Medical disclaimer
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations, and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Individual circumstances vary significantly, and nothing on this page should be used as a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified medical professional.
If you have concerns about your health, please seek medical attention promptly. To discuss your specific condition and treatment options with our team, please book a consultation by calling us at (03) 9466 7338.
References
[1] van Rijssen AL, ter Linden H, Werker PM. Five-year results of a randomized clinical trial on treatment in Dupuytren’s disease: percutaneous needle fasciotomy versus limited fasciectomy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2012;129(2):469-77. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21987045/
[2] Dias JJ, Ryder S, Sinden A, et al. Collagenase Injection versus Limited Fasciectomy for Dupuytren’s Contracture. N Engl J Med. 2024;391(16):1499-1510. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2312631
[3] Zhou C, Selles RW, Slijper HP, et al. Comparative Effectiveness of Percutaneous Needle Aponeurotomy and Limited Fasciectomy for Dupuytren’s Contracture: A Multicenter Observational Study. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2016;138(4):837-846. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27307334/
[4] Kan HJ, Verrijp FW, Huisstede BMA, Hovius SER, van Nieuwenhoven CA, Selles RW. The consequences of different definitions for recurrence of Dupuytren’s disease. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2013;66(1):95-103. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22995794/
[5] Strömberg J, Ibsen-Sörensen A, Fridén J. Comparison of treatment outcome after collagenase and needle fasciotomy for Dupuytren contracture: a randomized, single-blinded, clinical trial with a 1-year follow-up. J Hand Surg Am. 2016;41(9):873-880. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27477718/
[6] Rodrigues JN, Becker GW, Ball C, et al. Surgery for Dupuytren’s contracture of the fingers. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(12):CD010143. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26648251/
[7] Crean SM, Gerber RA, Le Graverand MP, Boyd DM, Cappelleri JC. The efficacy and safety of fasciectomy and fasciotomy for Dupuytren’s contracture in European patients: a structured review of published studies. J Hand Surg Eur Vol. 2011;36(5):396-407. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21382860/
[8] Toppi JT, Trompf L, Smoll NR, et al. Dupuytren’s contracture: an analysis of outcomes of percutaneous needle fasciotomy versus open fasciectomy. ANZ J Surg. 2015;85(9):639-43. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24438029/
[9] Khan PS, Hayat H, Rane A, Bhat H. Surgical Treatment of Dupuytren’s Contracture; Results and Complications of Surgery: Our Experience. J Hand Microsurg. 2010;2(2):62-66. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3122711/