Needle aponeurotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition that causes thickening and tightening of the tissue beneath the skin of the hand, resulting in a claw-like deformity. This condition most commonly affects the ring finger and the little finger, although it can also affect other fingers.

Dupuytren’s contracture can cause difficulty in performing everyday activities, such as grasping objects or shaking hands, and it can also cause pain. The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is not known, but it is believed to be related to genetic factors, as it often runs in families. The condition is more common in men and in people over the age of 50.

During the procedure, the surgeon inserts a small needle into the skin and carefully navigates it through the affected tissue, using it to break up the cords that are causing the contraction. Unlike traditional surgery, which requires larger incisions and a longer recovery time, needle aponeurotomy is typically performed in an outpatient setting, under local anesthesia, and does not require any stitches. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes to complete, and patients can typically return to normal activities within a few days.

Needle aponeurotomy works by breaking up the cords that are causing the contracture in Dupuytren’s disease. The cords are the result of an overgrowth of connective tissue in the hand, which can cause the fingers to bend inward and become stuck in a flexed position.

During the procedure, the surgeon inserts a small needle into the skin and navigates it through the affected tissue, using it to break up the cords and restore normal movement to the fingers.

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting, under local anesthesia, and does not require any stitches. Because it is minimally invasive, the recovery time is typically shorter than with traditional surgery. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after the procedure. While needle aponeurotomy is highly effective in treating Dupuytren’s contracture, it is not appropriate for everyone.

Patients with severe contracture or multiple areas of involvement may require traditional surgery, and patients with certain medical conditions may not be candidates for the procedure. Patients should discuss their options with their hand surgeon to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs.

Needle aponeurotomy is highly effective in treating Dupuytren’s contracture, with success rates ranging from 80% to 90%. The procedure has several advantages over traditional surgery, including a shorter recovery time, less scarring, and fewer complications. In addition, the procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting, under local anesthesia, which is less risky than general anesthesia.

After the procedure, the patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, but these symptoms generally subside within a few days to a week. The patient may be instructed to wear a compression bandage or splint for several days to help manage swelling and support the hand. They may also be given exercises to perform at home to help promote healing and maintain mobility in the hand.

The length of recovery time for a needle aponeurotomy varies depending on the individual patient and the severity of their Dupuytren’s contracture. However, many patients are able to resume their normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure. Hand therapy may also be recommended to help optimize outcomes and prevent recurrence of the condition. It is important for patients to follow their hand therapist’s instructions for at-home care and exercises to ensure the best possible recovery.

Needle aponeurotomy for Dupuytren’s contracture is available at Florida Hand Center. For more information, contact us today to request an appointment. We serve patients from Port Charlotte FL, Fort Myers FL, Punta Gorda FL, Harbour Heights FL, Estero FL, Lake Suzy FL, Cape Coral FL, Charlotte Harbor FL, Murdock FL, Solana FL, and surrounding areas.