Dupuytren’s disease

Dupuytren’s disease surgery aims to release contractures and restore hand function.

Surgery is considered when functional limitation, pain, or progressive contracture affects daily life.

The cost of Dupuytren’s surgery depends on the complexity of the contracture, whether one or multiple fingers are involved, and whether it is performed as a day case or requires hospital admission. Most Dupuytren’s procedures are performed as day surgery.

A detailed estimate will be provided following your consultation with Dr Ellis.

Costs are inclusive of:

• Surgeon’s fee

• Hospital fees

• Anaesthetist’s fee

• Routine follow-up appointments

Your consultation is conducted at our Mornington clinic with Dr Lisa Ellis, and our experienced plastic surgery nursing team.

During the consultation, we will:

• Review the severity of the contracture and the impact on hand function

• Discuss symptoms, including difficulty gripping or extending fingers

• Assess hand strength, range of motion, and overall function

• Review previous treatments or interventions

Goals of surgery will be explained, including improved finger mobility, grip function, and hand appearance.

Your overall health and suitability for anaesthesia will also be reviewed.

Detailed instructions will be provided to prepare for surgery and recovery.

Dupuytren’s surgery is performed under regional or general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital facility. Most Dupuytren’s procedures are performed as day surgery.

The procedure involves releasing or removing the thickened fascia causing finger contractures. Incisions are carefully planned to preserve skin, tendons, and nerves, minimising scarring while optimising functional outcome.

Surgery duration varies depending on the number of fingers involved and the severity of the contracture, typically lasting 60–120 minutes. Post-operative dressings and a splint are applied to support healing and protect the surgical site.

Local anaesthetic is often used to reduce bleeding and assist with post-operative pain control.

Canvas Plastic Surgery provides tailored post-operative care to support optimal recovery.

Most Dupuytren’s procedures are performed as day surgery.

Recovery timelines vary depending on the extent of the surgery and hand demands.

Hand therapy is often essential to maintain mobility, prevent stiffness, and optimise functional recovery.

Your return to work and daily activities will depend on the needs of your occupation:

• Light duties: 2-3 weeks

• Manual or heavy work: 4–6 weeks

Full functional recovery may take several months, especially for more extensive contractures.