MMI Hand Surgeon Offers New Non-Surgical Treatment for Hand Ailment

The physicians at the Mid-Maryland Musculoskeletal Institute (MMI) continue to work on the cutting edge of medicne.   Dr. Kristin Nesbitt, M.D., F.A.C.S, a fellowship trained hand surgeon, is reaching beyond the realm of surgical intervention to find non-surgical treatments for her patients, with her use of Xiaflex injections to treat the hand condition known as Dupuytren’s Contracture.

Dupuytren’s Contracture is a thickening of connective tissue forming a thick cord that results in impaired hand function as it causes the fingers, especially the small and ring fingers, to curl towards the palm of the hand. Although painless, the thickening and tightening (contracture) of this tissue can cause the fingers to curl.  The ring and little fingers are most commonly affected, but any or all fingers can be involved. As the bend in the finger increases, it may be hard to straighten the finger. Simple everyday tasks such as grasping large objects and putting your hand in a pocket become difficult.

Xiaflex is an enzyme injection approved by the Food & Drug Administration for treatment of Dupuytren’s Contracture. Dr. Nesbitt is the only hand surgeon in the area trained and certified to perform this treatment.  The procedure is performed in the office, resulting in less pain, swelling and rehabilitation than normally associated with the surgery performed for this condition.  Early results for this injection appear to be as good as surgical results.

According to Dr. Nesbitt, “So far the results my patients have experienced with the injections are equal to those who have had surgery, without the potential risks associated with a surgical procedure.  I think it will change the future treatment of Dupuytren’s as most people will opt for the injection over the surgery.” 

The physicians at MMI strive to offer the latest and least invasive treatments for their patients.  Now with Dr. Nesbitt’s use of Xiaflex injections, those patients whose only previous option for treatment was surgery, have a successful non-surgical option for treatment of Dupuytren’s Contracture.