The use of skeletal traction in the treatment of severe primary Dupuytren's disease.

In 13 patients (18 fingers) we used two types of external fixator as progressive static splints for the preoperative correction of the deformities of severe Dupuytren's disease before conventional fasciectomy. The duration of treatment was from one to four weeks. At a mean follow-up of 18 months the mean total fixed flexion deficit had been reduced from 138 degrees to 39 degrees and the mean proximal interphalangeal joint contracture from 80 degrees to 29 degrees. The mean total active range of movement had increased from 123 degrees to 175 degrees. These preliminary results are promising, but continued follow-up is needed since recurrence is common.