Surgical and therapy update on the management of Dupuytren's disease

Patients' perspectives on Dupuytren's disease: A scoping review and categorization using the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Framework (ICF)

BACKGROUND

Dupuytren's disease (DD) often has an underestimated impact on the lives of those effected.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to provide a holistic overview of the available evidence regarding the patient perspectives (PP) on DD, which can help to better understand both the patients and the disease itself.

STUDY DESIGN

Scoping Review.

METHODS

Based on the framework of Arksey and O'Malley and enhanced by the recommendations of Levac et al., a scoping review was used to locate the available material about PP on DD. Data collection was performed using the electronic databases PubMed, CINAHL and Embase, and additional sources. The included publications were classified using the Oxford Level of Evidence (LoE), and their findings were linked to the components, domains and corresponding codes of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

RESULTS

Of the total 2.127 search results, eight publications published between 2009 and 2020 were included. They have a sample size of seven to 85 patients and a LoE of IV. Data, clustered into 61 topics could be linked to the components 'Activities and Participation', 'Body Function and Structures', 'Environmental Factors' and 13 domains of the ICF. The results show that DD primarily affects patients in 'global mental functions' (n = 21), the 'mobility' (n = 18), 'community, social and civic life' (n = 10) and, 'self-care' (n = 10). The individual topics could be linked to up to eight ICF codes (second to third level category). The impact is perceived in general situations and clearly defined activities.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this review illustrate the existence of the known functional impairments, limitations on self-care, and major impacts on psychosocial area. Due to the quality and lack of evidence, no generalized statement can be made about the value of PP on DD. Nevertheless, it has been shown that PP are essential for understanding both those affected and the disease itself thus be involved in diagnostic and treatment decisions in DD.

The case of a woman with bilateral Dupuytren's contractures who developed CRPS-1 after fasciectomy with no relapse on subsequent collagenase clostridium histolyticum injection and manipulation of the other hand: Considerations for implementing a Budapest criteria checklist and assessing vasomotor instability by measuring differences in skin temperature

BACKGROUND

For patients who experience atypical neurogenic pain thought to be complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) after Dupuytren's fasciectomy early recognition has been reported to improve outcomes. Furthermore, given the progressive nature of Dupuytren's, individuals with a history of CRPS have been "at risk" for further surgical intervention.

PURPOSE

To familiarize therapists with a Budapest criteria (BC) checklist for early diagnosis of CRPS, describe how tracking sudomotor/vasomotor signs alongside differences in skin temperature were used to monitor vasomotor instability and intervention effectiveness for a patient with atypical pain after fasciectomy and to detail management of the same patient with a CRPS history who had collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injection of her other hand without exacerbating CRPS.

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

METHODS

Medical record review was done by the author. Part 1- patient-reported symptoms and therapist-observed signs were mined and scored against the BC. Part 2- vasomotor/sudomotor signs and differences in skin temperatures (>1˚C) were used to interpret response to therapy and medical interventions. Part3- description and pictures of the process this patient underwent for CCH and manipulation.

RESULTS

Part 1- therapist documentation failed to satisfy the BC. Part 2- vasomotor/sudomotor signs and skin temperature differences of >1˚C reflected the patient's incomplete response to therapy and medication, thus strengthening need for percutaneous stellate ganglion sympathetic nerve blocks. Part 3- CRPS was not exacerbated with CCH procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of a BC checklist may guide documentation, speed recognition for an earlier diagnosis of CRPS in patients with Dupuytren's and an atypical post-fasciectomy response. Once identified, observed signs and measures of skin temperature could be used to monitor response to therapy and medical interventions. The positive outcome for this woman with Dupuytren's and CRPS-I after CCH injection are encouraging.

Orthotic interventions for restoring proximal interphalangeal joint motion for patients with hand injuries or conditions: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Limitations to proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) motion can result in significant functional impairment for people with hand injuries and conditions. The role of orthotic intervention to improve PIPJ motion has been studied; however, high-quality systematic reviews and meta-analyses are lacking.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of orthotic intervention for restoring PIPJ extension/flexion following hand injuries or conditions.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was completed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane Central, and PEDro using terms related to orthoses, finger PIPJ range of motion, and randomized controlled trial design. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro score, study outcomes were pooled wherever possible using random effects meta-analysis, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

RESULTS

Twelve trials were included (PEDro score: 4-7/10). The addition of orthotic intervention was not more effective than hand therapy alone following Dupuytren's release for improving total active extension (mean difference [MD] -2.8°, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -9.6° to 4.0°, p = 0.84), total active flexion (MD -5.8°, 95% CI: -12.7° to 1.2°, p = 0.70), Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores (MD 0.4, 95% CI: -2.7 to 3.6, p = 0.79), or patient satisfaction (standardized MD 0.20, 95% CI: -0.49 to 0.09, p = 0.17). Orthotic intervention was more effective than hand therapy alone for improving PIPJ extension for fixed flexion deformities following traumatic finger injury or surgery (MD -16.7°, 95% CI: -20.1° to -13.3°, p < 0.001). No studies evaluated orthotic intervention to improve PIPJ flexion.

CONCLUSION

The addition of an extension orthosis following procedures to manage Dupuytren's contracture is no better than hand therapy alone for improving PIPJ extension. In contrast, the addition of a PIPJ extension orthosis in the presence of traumatic PIPJ fixed flexion deformities is more effective for improving PIPJ extension than hand therapy alone. Future studies are needed to evaluate the role of orthotic intervention for improving PIPJ flexion.

Effect of Perioperative Corticosteroid Administration on Early Postoperative Range of Motion and Functional Outcomes Following Dupuytren's Fasciectomy

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the study was to evaluate whether perioperative corticosteroid (CS) administration improves early postoperative range of motion (ROM) and function in patients undergoing Dupuytren's fasciectomy.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 58 patients who underwent Dupuytren's fasciectomy by a single fellowship-trained orthopedic hand surgeon from 2016 to 2020. During this time period, 51 digits in 34 patients received a single intraoperative dose of 10 mg of intravenous dexamethasone followed by a 6-day oral methylprednisolone taper course (CS group), and 37 digits in 24 patients did not (control group). Postoperatively, all patients started hand therapy within 1 week of surgery. At 2 and 6 weeks, patients had ROM data and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores collected by a blinded hand therapist. Paired t tests were used to compare the change in ROM and DASH scores at weeks 2 and 6.

RESULTS

The 2 cohorts had similar preoperative ROM. At 2 weeks postoperatively, the CS group had greater metacarpophalangeal (MP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and distal interphalangeal (DIP) flexion. There was no difference in MP, PIP, or DIP extension. At 6 weeks postoperatively, the CS group had greater PIP flexion. There was no difference between the groups in MP extension, MP flexion, PIP extension, DIP extension, or DIP flexion. Mean DASH scores were significantly lower in the CS group at weeks 2 and 6. There were no postoperative deep infections or complications requiring surgery in either group.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative CS administration appears to be safe and to improve early ROM and DASH scores following Dupuytren's fasciectomy.

Patients' perspectives of collagenase injection or needle fasciotomy and rehabilitation for Dupuytren disease, including hand function and occupational performance

PURPOSE

To describe patients' perspectives of collagenase injection or needle fasciotomy for Dupuytren disease (DD) including hand therapy, and their view of hand function and occupational performance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Interviews were performed with twelve patients who had undergone non-surgical treatment and rehabilitation for DD. Data was analysed using a problem-driven content analysis using the model of Patient Evaluation Process as a theoretical framework.

RESULTS

The participants' previous experiences influenced their expectations of the upcoming treatment and they needed information to be prepared for treatment. Treatment and rehabilitation had a positive impact on daily life and were regarded as effective and simple with quick recovery. However, there could be remaining issues with tenderness or stiffness. The participants expressed their belief in rehabilitation and how their own efforts could contribute to an improved result. Despite concerns about future recurrence participants described increased knowledge and sense of control regarding future needs.

CONCLUSION

Undergoing a non-surgical treatment and rehabilitation process for DD was regarded as quick and easy and can meet the need for improved hand function and occupational performance. Taking responsibility for one's own rehabilitation was considered to influence the outcome positively. The theoretical framework optimally supported the exploration of participants' perspective.Implications for rehabilitationTreatment of Dupuytren Disease (DD) with needle/collagenase combined with hand therapy was experienced as giving fast improvement in hand function and occupational performance.An individualized care process which satisfies the need for knowledge about the disease, prognosis, treatment options and rehabilitation can give individuals suffering from DD a sense of security.The need for active participation in the DD care process can vary and it is crucial to listen to individuals' opinions and needs.Individuals can take considerable responsibility for rehabilitation after non-surgical treatment for DD and regard it as important for the outcome.

Real-world Medicare Healthcare Costs of Patients with Dupuytren's Contracture Treated with Collagenase or Fasciectomy

Background

Our study aimed to compare real-world healthcare resource utilization (HRU) and healthcare cost (HC) of Medicare-insured patients (≥65 years old) with Dupuytren's contracture (DC) treated with Clostridium histolyticum (collagenase) or fasciectomy.

Methods

DC patients treated with collagenase or fasciectomy between July 2011 and June 2017 were identified using the IBM MarketScan Medicare Supplemental Database. The index date was the date of the first procedure. Demographic characteristics were captured on the index date, and comorbidities were assessed during the 24-month preindex period. HRU and HC were analyzed throughout the 12-month postindex period. Patients were matched using propensity score weights. Gamma log-linked generalized linear models were used to evaluate HC drivers.

Results

Out of 37,374 DC patients, 2911 received collagenase, while 6258 underwent fasciectomy. Postmatching, the total average annual HC was similar between collagenase and fasciectomy ($7271 versus $6220, P = 0.357). When HCs were stratified by the service provider, outpatient facility and physician office costs were lower in the collagenase cohort ($850 versus $1284, P = 0.047 and $546 versus $1001, P < 0.001). The costs of professional services were significantly higher than in the fasciectomy cohort due to the cost of collagenase injection ($1682 versus $629, P < 0.001). The HRU was similar between cohorts, except for more frequent outpatient facility visits in fasciectomy patients (12.3 versus 22.9, P < 0.001). Generalized linear model revealed Charlson comorbidity index, plan type, patients' residence region, sleep disorder, and hyperlipidemia as significant predictors of total HC.

Conclusion

This study found comparable total annual HC and HRU between collagenase- and fasciectomy-treated Medicare patients.

An Evaluation of the Source and Content of Dupuytren's Disease Information Available on the Internet

Introduction

The internet continues to expand in both size and number of users, and patients are using the internet with increasing frequency to research orthopedic conditions and treatment options. Despite the prevalence of patients searching for medical information, the quality of the available information varies substantially. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability and accuracy of the information available on the internet for Dupuytren’s disease. We hypothesized that the informational content found on the internet regarding this condition would be of acceptable quality.

Methods

The search phrasing “‘Dupuytren’ OR ‘Dupuytren’s’” was used to mimic how patients would likely search for information on the disease. These terms were entered into the five English-language search engines with the most frequent use on the internet. On each search engine, the first 50 URLs were recorded, including sponsored sites. The 250 total sites were filtered to remove duplicate sites and URLs linking to other search engines, resulting in a final list of 84 websites for informational scoring. A previously published information evaluation protocol was used to grade each website. Each site was graded according to these guidelines by two authors and scored based on authorship, content, disease summary, treatment options, pathogenesis, complications, and results. A third author resolved any conflict on authorship or content before analysis. The resultant “informational value” is the sum of the disease summary, treatment options, pathogenesis, complications, and results and can range from 0-100. 

Results

The mean total information score for all sites was 47.5 out of 100 points. Forty-three (51.2%) of the websites evaluated were authored by a physician or academic institution, and thirty-four (40.5%) of the sites were commercial in nature. The final seven websites (8.3%) had nonphysician, unidentified, or lay authorship. Physician and academic institution authored websites had an average informational score of 55.5 out of 100 points, compared to 39.7 out of 100 for all other websites. This difference was statistically significant (p <0.01). The mean informational score for the 10 sponsored websites was 16.4 out of 100.

Conclusion

We concluded that internet information on Dupuytren’s disease is of poor quality and incomplete. Academic and physician authored sites have higher quality than commercial sites, but significant room for improvement still exists. Patients should be advised to identify the authorship of the websites they obtain information from and avoid advertisements and commercial sites.

Dupuytren's Disease: An Outcomes-Focused Update

Dupuytren's disease (DD) remains a common fibroproliferative condition with significant sequelae and impact on patient's lives. The etiology of DD is poorly understood, and genetic predisposition is thought to be a strongly associated factor. Despite remarkable strides in improving our molecular understanding of DD, clinical treatment options have not yet overcome the frequently encountered challenge of recurrence. Recurrence rates continue to shape the prognosis of this fibrotic condition. In this outcomes-focused article, the various treatment modalities are reviewed. This further emphasizes the importance of patient education and providing them with the information to make informed decisions about their treatment.

The efficacies and limitations of fasciectomy and collagenase clostridium histolyticum in Dupuytren's contracture management: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

We intend to assess the efficacies and limitations of collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) and fasciectomy in treating Dupuytren's contracture, and the associated complications and rate of recurrences aiming to present a treatment algorithm.

METHODS

A literature search within the PubMed, Web of Sciences, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases was performed using the combined key words 'Dupuytren, palmar aponeurosis contracture, collagenase clostridium histolyticum and fasciectomy', including all possible studies with a set of predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Thirty studies were assessed for eligibility from 215 identified records. Seventeen publications satisfied the inclusion criteria including 2142 joints in 1784 patients. The mean follow-up time was 18.0 months (3-60).

CONCLUSION

Acceptable contractures release was obtained in both techniques. Severe complications associated with fasciectomy outrank those of CCH, whereas the low rate of recurrence favors the fasciectomy technique.

Therapist perceptions of best practice as ordered by referral source: An exploratory survey

INTRODUCTION

Productive outcomes for the hand therapy patient involve many components. Understanding whether therapists agree with the recommendations they receive, or find these informative, is a first step into understanding how shared decision-making on a treatment plan can be optimized.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The purposes of this study include (1) the extent which therapists see variable presentations of primary surgical/management in some indicator exemplars where practices vary from accepted/evidence-based practice; (2) hand therapists' level of agreement with the interventions prescribed on referrals, (3) describe the undocumented complications observed by hand therapists, and (4) report the therapists' perceptions as to the reasons for these complications METHODS: A survey was designed and pilot tested. Multiple-choice questions and free text allowed further explanation. The survey was administered through an electronic mailing to all American Society of Hand Therapy members with available e-mail addresses. Raw survey data were extracted and processed. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze therapists' demographic information. Frequencies of therapists' responses were calculated.

RESULTS

Ninety percent of all who responded have been in practice 10 years or more. The mean of the "often and always" ordered interventions was 20%. The mean of therapist perceptions as to whether these ordered interventions are best practice was 14%. Sixty percent reported that they had found an undocumented condition, and 60% reported to have found a postoperative complication. Perceived reasons for complications included the lack of communication and therapy intervention.

DISCUSSION

Hand therapists can play an important role in improving patient outcomes. Therapists can provide the health care team information regarding best practice. Additionally, the hand therapist may be who first identifies a postsurgical complication or an undocumented issue. Communication between the hand therapist and referral source is vital in optimizing patient outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Hand therapists can play an important role in improving overall outcomes for patients. The inter-professional working relationship between the referral source, hand therapist, and the patient is a complex phenomenon and communication between the hand therapist and referral source is vital.

Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix Following Fasciectomy for the Treatment of Dupuytren's Disease

Background:

Recurrence rates following surgical intervention for Dupuytren's disease (DD) remains high. In this study, we investigate the use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to reduce recurrence and improve long-term clinical outcome.

Methods:

We examined 132 patients undergoing open fasciectomy for DD from 2007 to 2017. The experimental group had a sheet of ADM (FlexHD) sutured into the surgical bed controls were not closed with ADM. Patient characteristics, range of motion, and complications were examined.

Results:

Twenty-eight (21.2%) patients were treated with acellular dermal matrix, whereas 104 (78.8%) patients were not. The median age was 67.0 years (range 34–91 years). with no differences between group regarding age, comorbidities, and laterality. The mean preoperative interphalangeal joint flexion contracture in the ADM group of 66.5 ± 29.9 degrees was corrected to 9.7 ± 12.4 degrees, whereas the mean metacarpophalangeal joint preoperative flexion contracture of 51.4 ± 23.9 degrees was corrected to 7.8 ± 14.1 degrees at postoperative examination (P < 0.05). The median follow-up was 18.7 months, during which the recurrence of contracture was observed in 1 of 28 patients in the group receiving ADM compared with 9 of 104 in the control group (P = 0.37). There were no differences in the incidence of minor wound complications observed.

Conclusion:

The adjunct placement of acellular dermal matrix into the wound bed following fasciectomy for DD may be an important surgical strategy to reduce recurrence rates as well as augment coverage of exposed vital structures in cases of severe flexion contracture.

Universal Measures of Support Are Needed: A Cross-Sectional Study of Health Literacy in Patients with Dupuytren's Disease

BACKGROUND

Health literacy represents the degree to which patients can understand and act on health information. The relevance of health literacy to health care delivery, outcomes, and overall surgical care is unambiguous. This study aimed (1) to determine the prevalence of limited health literacy in patients diagnosed with Dupuytren's contracture and (2) to identify independent predictors of limited health literacy.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included patients with Dupuytren's disease and with self-reported English fluency. The Newest Vital Sign, a rapid, validated, and reliable screening tool, was selected to measure health literacy. An exploratory multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify possible predictors of limited health literacy.

RESULTS

A total of 185 patients met eligibility criteria and were included. From those, 82 (44 percent) were found to have limited health literacy, defined as a score of 3 or less on the Newest Vital Sign. The domain of prose literacy was most highly scored compared to numeracy and document literacy. Lower household income was associated with a 4.7-fold increase in the odds of having limited health literacy. Being an immigrant also increased the odds of having limited health literacy by a factor of 3.6. Sensitivity analyses and subgroup analyses (based on education, maternal language, and immigration status) corroborated these independent predictor findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Limited health literacy is common among patients with Dupuytren's contracture. System level changes are necessary such as the access and integration to clinical care of universal measures of support to promote productive patient-surgeon interactions.

The Role of Hand Therapy in Dupuytren Disease

The role of hand therapy in the treatment of Dupuytren disease varies depending on the patient and the procedure. There is limited evidence for hand therapy as a preventive treatment of Dupuytren disease. Before corrective treatment, the hand therapist can contribute with assessments to promote evaluation of outcome. After corrective treatment, hand therapy is tailored to each patient's needs and consists of orthoses, exercise, edema control, and pain or scar management. Orthoses are usually part of the hand therapy protocol after corrective procedures despite lack of strong supporting evidence and should be provided based on individual patient needs.

Embryonic Stem Cell-Like Population in Dupuytren's Disease Expresses Components of the Renin-Angiotensin System

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) mediates cardiac and renal fibrosis. Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a proliferative fibromatosis affecting the hands. This study investigated the expression of the RAS in DD.

METHODS

3,3-Diaminobenzidine (DAB) and immunofluorescent immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for (pro)renin receptor (PRR), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin II receptor 1 (ATIIR1), and angiotensin II receptor 2 (ATIIR2) was performed on 4-μm thick formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded sections of DD cords and nodules from 6 patients. Western blotting (WB) and NanoString mRNA analysis were performed to confirm RAS protein expression and transcriptional activation, respectively.

RESULTS

IHC staining demonstrated the expression of PRR, ACE, ATIIR1, and ATIIR2 on the ERG⁺ and CD34⁺ endothelium of the micro vessels surrounding the DD cords and nodules. PRR was also expressed on the pericyte layer of these microvessels. WB confirmed protein expression of PRR, ACE, and ATIIR2 but not ATIIR1. NanoString analysis confirmed transcriptional activation of PRR, ACE, ATIIR1, but ATIIR2 was below detectable levels.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated expression of PRR, ATIIR1, ATIIR2, and ACE on the embryonic stem cell-like cell population on the microvessels surrounding DD nodules and cords by IHC staining, although the expression of ATIIR1 was not confirmed by WB and that of ATIIR2 was below detectable levels on NanoString analysis. These findings suggest the embryonic stem cell-like cell population as a potential therapeutic target for DD, by using RAS modulators.

MRI in flexor tendon rupture after collagenase injection

Flexor tendon rupture is an unusual complication following collagenase injection to relieve contractures. These patients require a close follow-up and in the event of tendon rupture, a decision has to be made whether to repair the tendon or manage the complication conservatively. The authors report the utility of MRI in the prognostication and management of a patient with Dupuytren's contracture, who underwent collagenase injection and subsequently developed flexor digitorum profundus tendon rupture.

Embryonic Stem Cell-like Population in Dupuytren's Disease

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Recent research has identified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) within Dupuytren’s disease (DD) tissue and they have been proposed to give rise to the myofibroblasts, implicated in the progression of this condition. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the primitive population that might be upstream of the MSC population, within DD.

Methods:

Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded 4-µm-thick sections of DD cords and nodules obtained from 6 patients underwent 3,3-diaminobenzidine and immunofluorescent immunohistochemical staining for embryonic stem cell (ESC) markers OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, pSTAT3, and SALL4 and endothelial markers CD34 and ERG. NanoString gene expression analysis was performed to determine the transcriptional activation of these markers.

Results:

Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated the expression of ESC markers OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, pSTAT3, and SALL4 on the endothelium of the microvessels expressing CD34 and ERG, particularly those surrounding the DD nodules. NanoString analysis confirmed the transcriptional activation of OCT4, NANOG, STAT3, and SALL4, but not SOX2.

Conclusion:

This article demonstrates the novel finding of an ESC-like population expressing ESC markers OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, pSTAT3, and SALL4, localized to the endothelium of the microvessels within DD tissue, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for this condition.