Needle Aponeurotomy
      Needle aponeurotomy was developed by a group of doctors in Paris, France. It has become popular with the desire for convenience and cost effectiveness. Needle aponeurotomy, or NA, can be performed during an office visit in typically taking 30 minutes. There is no fasting, and the hand can be washed the next day. The hand typically can be used immediately for light use, and 7 days later for unrestricted use such as sports.

       Needle aponeurotomy involves injections of local anesthetic and a small needle is used to divide the Dupuytren's cords in the palm and fingers. Gentle pulling is used to break the tissue, usually resulting in immediate improvement of motion. A simple dressing or BandAids are applied to the hand and are usually removed by the next day. These advantages usually result in patient convenience, lower cost, and earlier return to work or activities compared to open surgery.
       There are similar risks to open surgery including infection, nerve, tendon, and artery injury. The most common complication is a skin tear that usually resolves with simple wound care over 2-3 weeks. Recurrence of the contracture can occur months or years later, and repeat NA or open surgery can be performed depending on the hand. I typically do not perform NA on patients who have had prior open Dupuytrens surgery on the same finger.

 
Before and after pictures of needle aponeurotomy

For video examples of NA, click here: YouTube

For an appointment phone:  925-939-8585
Monday through Friday
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