Dupuytren's contracture in Vienna
In brief
For Dupuytren's contracture, Dr. Handl removes the hardened cords of connective tissue in the hand so that the fingers can be straightened again. Depending on severity, the procedure takes 30 to 120 minutes and is performed as an outpatient under local anaesthesia. Office work is possible after about two weeks, sport after four weeks. Prices start at €2,000.
- Medical review
- This text was medically reviewed by our team on 6 October 2026
- Specialist for this treatment:
-
Dr. Victor Boulgaropoulos
- Cost:
- from €2,000
- Cost coverage
- If medically indicated, covered by private health insurance or partly refunded by the statutory health insurance.
At a glance
- Location
- Practice
- Outpatient or inpatient
- outpatient
- Duration of a treatment
- 30-120 minutes
- Type of anaesthesia
- local anaesthesia
- Recovery phase
- after a short rest you can go straight home
- Scars
- scar according to severity
- Desk work / office work
- 2 weeks
- Sport
- after 4 weeks
Dupuytren's surgery and treatment in Vienna
Dupuytren's contracture surgery
What is Dupuytren's contracture?
Dupuytren's contracture is a disease of the connective tissue in the palm of the hand. It causes nodular thickening and shortening of the connective tissue cords that spread across the palm and fingers. This leads to a gradual bending of the fingers, especially the ring finger and little finger. The exact cause of Dupuytren's contracture is not fully understood, but there appears to be a genetic predisposition. The disease is more common in men and in older age. Surgical treatment can help correct the deformities.
Dupuytren's surgery in Vienna
If you are considering Dupuytren's surgery in Vienna, it is advisable to consult an experienced surgeon. In our team, Dr. Victor Boulgaropoulos is an experienced hand surgeon who has performed this operation successfully thousands of times. The treatment is performed as a day case, so you can go home on the same day as the operation. Our team accompanies you throughout the healing process.
Outpatient Dupuytren's surgery
Dupuytren's surgery, also known as fasciotomy or fasciectomy, aims to remove the thickened and shortened connective tissue cords in the hand caused by Dupuytren's contracture. The course of the operation can vary depending on the severity of the disease and individual circumstances.
Before the operation, there is a detailed consultation with the hand surgeon, in which the diagnosis, the severity of the disease and the best treatment options are discussed. The operation can be performed under local, regional or general anaesthesia, depending on various factors.
During the operation, the surgeon makes a skin incision over the affected connective tissue cords in the palm. The area is opened, and the thickened fibres are precisely divided and removed. In some cases, partial or complete removal of the diseased fascia may also be necessary. The skin is carefully closed, and drains can be inserted to remove excess blood and tissue fluid.
After the operation, the hand is usually bandaged, and splints or special dressings can be applied to support healing and hold the fingers in a certain position. In some cases, physiotherapy is recommended to promote finger mobility. The patient is invited to regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and make sure no complications occur.
It is important to follow the surgeon's instructions closely and attend regular follow-up examinations. Recovery can take a few weeks.
Preparation, risks and aftercare
Preparation
In the consultation, Dr. Handl examines your hand and discusses when surgery makes sense, usually when a finger can no longer be fully straightened. The procedure is performed as an outpatient under local anaesthesia. After consulting us, avoid blood-thinning medication beforehand and remove rings from the affected hand. Arrange help with everyday tasks for the first days.
Risks
Bruising, swelling, infection and wound-healing problems are possible. Because the cords lie close to nerves and blood vessels, changes in sensation in the fingers can occur, which usually pass. Some restriction of movement can remain. Dupuytren's contracture is a predisposition: new cords can form even after successful surgery.
In the informed-consent consultation, Dr. Handl discusses all risks in detail and in relation to your personal situation.
Aftercare
After a short rest, you can go home. Keep the hand raised in the first days to prevent swelling. Consistent hand therapy and, if necessary, a splint are crucial for mobility. Office work is possible again after about two weeks, sport after about four weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the waiting time for an operation date?
Our team performs Dupuytren's surgery routinely; the waiting time for an operation date is at most 2 weeks.
How much does Dupuytren's surgery cost?
The costs amount to €2,000 and can be submitted to your health insurer.
Is Dupuytren's surgery dangerous?
This operation is considered a very low-risk treatment. In your individual consultation, you will be informed in detail about all the options and any risks of the procedure and have the opportunity to clarify any open questions.
Will there be visible scars after Dupuytren's surgery?
Scarring differs from person to person. A small scar is visible, which becomes inconspicuous over time.
Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and is therefore usually not felt to be painful. If you wish, twilight sedation may also be possible.
Are the costs covered by insurance?
The costs are covered by private insurance. If you do not have private insurance, the operation is possible at our practice as a self-payer.
How long does the procedure take?
Depending on severity, the procedure takes between 30 and 120 minutes. Afterwards, you can go straight home.
When can I go out in public again after the operation?
With the dressing, you can go out in public again after just a few days.
What do I need to consider before the procedure?
Please avoid medication that affects blood clotting, such as aspirin, for 14 days before the procedure. You should also largely avoid alcohol and cigarettes, as these can impair wound healing.
What do I need to consider after the procedure?
For optimal wound healing, it is important to spare the hand and keep the dressing dry.
When can I do sport again after the procedure?
We recommend avoiding sport that strains the hand for the first 4 weeks after the procedure.
Personal consultation
Tell us what you would like to discuss. We will get back to you within two working days to arrange a personal consultation with Dr. Handl.
Prefer to call? +43 1 877 20 20
More treatments: Body
Tummy tuck
A tummy tuck helps remove excess skin and fat after major weight loss or pregnancy. Dr. Handl, experts in Vienna.
Brazilian butt lift
Get the perfect buttocks with a Brazilian butt lift – experienced plastic surgeons in Vienna. Book a consultation now!
Liposuction
Liposuction – remove unwanted fat deposits on the abdomen, legs or buttocks with Dr. Handl & team in Vienna. The experts in Vienna.