Long-term results after segmental aponeurectomy for Dupuytren's disease.

Segmental aponeurectomy has been proposed as a less extensive procedure for the treatment of Dupuytren's disease to limit the incidence of wound complications and stiffness associated with wide dissections. Analysis of the late results showed that the operation brought a lasting correction of the contracture. In hands which did not show any sign of progression of the disease, the follow-up values were even slightly better than the immediate postoperative measurements. It also showed that the proportions of recurrences, extensions and hands free of the disease are similar to those after other procedures and that the type of operation does not appear to be related to the progression of Dupuytren's disease.