[Treatment of Dupuytren's contracture (author's transl)]

Surgical treatment of Dupuytren's contracture improves function but cannot remove the cause of the disease. Strict selection of cases, knowledge of the anatomy, the use of incisions appropriate to the local alterations, an atraumatic operative technique, and careful aftercare are essential for positive results. The literature cites success rates of between 60 and 85 percent. Recurrences cannot always be avoided but the frequency can be reduced by meticulous removal of all diseased and normal connective tissue in this area.