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 degrees 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.