Multi-needle aponeurotomy for advanced Dupuytren's disease: preliminary results of safety and efficacy (MNA 1 study).

Aim: To assess the safety and efficacy of multi-needle aponeurotomy (MNA) for advanced Duputren's disease.

Methods: This prospective study included patients with age more than 17 years, Dupuytren's contracture with palmo-digital or poly-digital involvement, presumed NA number needed to treat>4, and availability for at least 1-month follow-up after MNA. Outcome measures were Tubiana score and passive extension deficit, after MNA and at 1 and 6 months; self-assessed disability and satisfaction at 1 and 6 months; and adverse events (AEs).

Results: Thirty patients were included. MNA was performed on 37 hands and 99 rays. Among 25 assessed MNA sessions for treatment-related discomfort, patients considered 22 (88%) not at all to moderately painful. Six minor AEs, representing 2 for every 100 NAs, were reported. Tubiana scores at baseline (5.3±2.3, n=35) were improved after treatment (1.7±1.8, n=32, P<0.0001), at 1 month (2.2±1.4, n=26, P<0.0001) and at 6 months (2.8±2.7, n=19, P<0.01). Passive extension deficit was greatly reduced after treatment and persisted at follow-up. Disability scores at baseline (27.6±26.9, n=37) were reduced at 1 month (13.2±19.5, n=26, P=0.02) and at 6 months (5.2±11.6, n=20, P<0.001). Patients were highly satisfied at 1 month (100%, n=25) and 6 months (95%, n=19).

Conclusion: MNA appears safe and effective for advanced Dupuytren's disease. It could become a treatment of reference and contribute to reducing the need for surgery in this indication.