Total vs. partial aponeurectomy for Dupuytren’s contracture — A literature review

The etiology of Dupuytren’s disease is controversial and thus the disease can only be treated when it presents with symptoms to warrant intervention. Surgical treatment is the method of choice to preserve hand dexterity and function. It is advisable to perform surgery at an early stage of disease progression, but various surgical techniques have been advocated. A partial fasciectomy is recommend by many authors, whereas a total aponeurectomy, where all palmar tissue is removed, might reduce the risk of recurrent disease due to the widespread removal of aponeurosis. The total aponeurectomy is performed less frequently due to the potential complications of this technique. In order to achieve an objective comparison of both surgical options we performed a literature meta-analysis, involving a comparison of surgical indications, results and complications following partial and total aponeurectomy, which are described in detail within this review article.