Percutaneous needle fasciotomy in dupuytren's disease

The aim of this study was to examine our results of 74 percutaneous needle fasciotomies for Dupuytren's contracture. Pre-operative and postoperative total passive extension deficit was measured. Patients were seen at the outpatient clinic at 32 months for final follow-up. Extension deficit and sensibility were measured and flexor tendon function assessed. Recurrence, defined as an increase of the passive extension deficit of 30° or more compared to the immediate postoperative measurement, and other complications were also noted. Immediate outcome was excellent with an average improvement of 77%. After 32 months, we reviewed 55 rays. Their recurrence rate was 65%. Two patients experienced a slightly diminished sensibility on one side of the finger. There were no flexor tendon injuries. This procedure has a good short-term effect. It may be suitable for patients who want a minimally invasive treatment and to whom long-term results are less important. It may also have a place in delaying fasciectomy.