A new operation, but nothing to do with cancer.

 

I had a bit of a mystery appointment at our local hospital today, because the electronic invite just said I was going to the 'Fracture and orthopedic department' but didn't actually say why. I had a couple of good ideas of what it might be, but it turned out that it was the most obvious one, the follow-up from my referral for 'Dupuytren's Contracture'.

Those who have it already will need no explanation, and it is surprisingly common. About 4 or 5% percent of the adult population have it, and above the age of 65 about 20% of us do. And I'm one of them. My doctor noticed it about eight years ago, so I am a relatively early adopter. It is progressive, but often in fits and starts. It can be stable for a long time, then traumatic events can speed it up a bit. Which may explain why mine has taken a turn for the worse.

Dupuytrens consists of growths that are called 'nodules', which form along and above the tendons on your fingers and palms. I have them on both palms, but the only finger which is currently bent and cannot be straightened is the little finger on my right hand (see picture above). It causes few problems yet, but it does cause some. I cannot accurately play the C nat key on my flute. I find it difficult to put rubber gloves on. The doctor today pointed out that some sufferers end up poking themselves in the eye when they wash their face. Not funny, really. 

Now the last time I went to hospital about this they said it had not progressed far enough for treatment, but now it seems the angle is enough to offer surgery. Now this is a little gruesome (trigger warning right here). They cut along the palm side of the affected finger and cut out the nodules before stitching your finger back together. He said that my skin looked good enough to not need a skin graft from my inner arm (oh goodie). And then you are in a plaster splint for 10 days and then you can start doing physio and recovery work. And eventually I may have a scarred but fully-functioning right hand. And can end the jokes about Patrick being very unwilling to put his hand in his pocket. 

And I have to say, despite the cuts and stitches, I am quite looking forward to having a hand that works properly again. I should have used that old joke on him, shouldn't I:

Patient: After the operation will I be able to play the piano?

Doctor: Yes, of course.

Patient: That's quite a shock, because I could never play it before. Wow!