[Dupuytren disease--formal pathogenesis without contraction and a new surgery concept].

The palmar fibromatosis holds the finger in the flexed position--extension inhibition rather than contraction. According to this extrinsic concept, only a passive, secondarily reactive effect can be attributed to the palmar aponeurosis. Out of 72 hands examined 5 or more years after an operation in which the aponeurosis had been left intact, 47% proved to be clear of disease.