Collagenase Clostridum histolyticum in the Management of Dupuytren's Contracture

Dupuytren's contracture is a fibroproliferate disease of the palmar aponeurosis with a formation of nodules and cords. Surgical treatment is the gold standard for Dupuytren's contracture at the moment. A short while ago Collagenase clostridium histolyticum was licensed as a nonsurgical method to treat Dupuytren's contracture. Collagenase clostridium histolyticum is injected directly into the Dupuytren's cord and after 24 h the contracture is distended by manual rupturing. Collagenase clostridium histolyticum causes a depletion of collagen, however neurovascular structures are spared. 2 clinical phase III studies showed that contractures could be effectively reduced when using Collagenase clostridium histolyticum. However, there are no long-term results regarding effectiveness and side effects, or comparative studies using surgical methods. This paper presents a review of Collagenase clostridium histolyticum and its role in the management of Dupuytren's contracture. Indication, technical procedure, treatment results and complications are described.