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Xiaflex for Dupuytren's Contracture

Dupuytren's contracture is thickening of the fibrous tissue layer under the skin of palms, fingers, and hands which leads to curving of the finger. It is caused due to the excessive production of collagen which gets deposited under the skin. Hereditary factors, excessive alcohol consumption, diabetes, seizures, and increased age may increase the risk of developing the condition.

The most commonly observed symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture are lumps or nodules in the palm, difficulty in straightening the finger, and contracture of the nodules which forms tough bands under the skin.

Treatment with Xiaflex

Dupuytren’s contracture can be treated by both non-surgical and surgical methods. The new and effective treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture is treatment with Xiaflex (collagenase Clostridium histolyticum). Xiaflex is comprised of two collagen enzymes that have hydrolytic activity and breaks the collagen that causes contracture.

Xiaflex is directly injected into the palpable Dupuytren’s cord that affects the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint or metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint. After 1-3 days the surgeon will straighten the finger which will rupture the cord.

The common side effects of Xiaflex include fluid builds up in the tissue, lymph nodes in the elbow or underarm swells up, bleeding, pain and tenderness in the injected area, and itching. However, these risks are usually mild or moderate and resolve.

Please inform Professor Bain if you are taking any prescribed medicines or non-prescribed medicines. Also, individuals with anti-coagulants disorders who are taking aspirin, Coumadin, Plavix, or Effient should discussed physician before initiating Xiaflex.

Xiaflex is not ideal for all cases, and the surgeon will advise you of the various treatment options for your hand.

XIAFLEX Patient Brochure

 

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