Dupuytren's Contracture Treatment Center and Needle Aponeurotomy Specialists

Dupuytren's Contracture was considered a surgical disease since its first description in 1831. Thanks to advances in the 1970's, Dupuytren's Contracture can now be treated non-surgically using needle aponeurotomy (NA) or needle release (NR).

It is an outpatient, office procedure. It produces prompt, usually striking improvement in hand function and appearance. Recovery is rapid. Most return to full activities within a few days. The procedure is far less expensive and much less traumatic than conventional open surgery.

Conventional open surgery, normally in the operating room and under general anesthesia, uses long zig-zag incisions into the fingers and palm. Recovery is painful, protracted and with therapy usually necessary.

Needle fasciotomy (aponeurotomy) was initiated in 1970s by Drs. Lermusiaux and Badois, rheumatologists of Lariboisiere Hospital (Paris, France).

Dr. Lermusiaux published his first results in 1979. Progressively, this medical technique spread throughtout Europe and has become well established as a first-line treatment of Dupuytren's Disease for both palmer and digital forms. The procedure now is being introduced into the United States. Dr. Barry is proud to be one of the first United States physicians trained in the Laribossiere Hospital by Drs Lermusiaux and Badois to help introduce the needle aponeurotomy into this country.