[The treatment of Dupuytren's contracture by partial fasciectomy]

The authors present their own experience in the treatment of Dupuytren's disease. From 1977 until 1991, 102 patients were treated with partial palmar and digital fasciectomy. Postoperative complications occurred in 16 (15.68%) cases: infection in 1 (0.98%), skin necrosis also in 1 (0.98%), hematoma in 6 (5.88%) and postoperative stiffness of the hand in 8 (7.84%). Excellent postoperative results were reported in 61 patients (59.8%), good results in 37 (36.3%) and poor results in 4 (3.9%). Twenty-three patients were followed-up. There were 9 recurrences (39.1%) and 11 extensions of the pathologic process (47.8%). In summary, we feel Dupuytren's contracture can be controlled and the patient's hand function can be improved by partial fasciectomy.