Miscellaneous

Abstract

The etiology of Dupuytren’s contracture remains unclear (Fig. 15-1). Surgical treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture remains the standard of care. The use of a transverse incision in the palm, which is then sutured, has been associated with the complication of hematoma formation. The advantages of leaving transverse wounds open are that a hematoma cannot form, and there is less pain and swelling in the hand, facilitating earlier finger motion. Histologically, myofibroblasts are the most important component in Dupuytren’s disease. The fibroblastic proliferation in Dupuytren’s contracture may be associated with an increase in plateletderived growth factor B.