Abstract

Background and objectives: Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a benign proliferative disorder that affects the palmar aponeurosis and fingers. Current treatments are mostly invasive and have recurrences. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy has been proposed for the management of this disease, given its low cost, in addition to being a non-invasive technique. The aim of this study is present a therapeutic experience in DD using radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy (rESWT). Material and method: A 72-year-old woman presented in both hands a band of palmar fibrous tissue associated with the little finger, manifesting pain on pressure and severe limitation of extension. Pain intensity at rest and movement, pressure pain threshold, mobility, grip strength, disability, and severity of DD were evaluated. Six sessions of rESWT were performed distributed over 4 weeks using 2000 pulses at 14 Hz and 1.4 bar followed by 2000 pulses at 6 Hz and 3.4 bar. Results: Minimal improvements were evidenced in all the variables evaluated. The effect of the intervention was not sufficient to generate a minimal clinically important difference. Conclusion: Based on this experience, rESWT did not generate a relevant clinical change in the treatment of advanced-stage DD. It is necessary to inquire into the efficacy of this technique considering the type of extracorporeal shockwave used, as well as a varied staging that allows evidence the effects of radial shockwaves according to the severity of disease.