Dupuytrens Disease

What is Dupuytren’s Disease?

Dupuytren’s disease (or Dupuytren’s contracture) causes the connective tissue in the palm to thicken, forming nodules or cords that pull the fingers toward the palm.

LDRT is most effective in the early stages, before the fingers become fixed or difficult to move. Rather than destroying tissue, LDRT slows the overactive cell growth driving the condition. It is non-invasive, painless, and typically given as six short sessions over one to two weeks, sometimes repeated later if required.

How LDRT works

LDRT may:

Slow or halt nodule and cord development
Ease tightness or discomfort
Maintain hand flexibility and function

“Dupuytren’s disease can make everyday tasks like writing or gripping objects difficult. Low-dose radiation therapy offers a gentle way to slow its progression and preserve hand function.”

Dr Peter Gorayski

Radiation Oncologist

Who Might Benefit

LDRT may be suitable for people who:

Are in the early phase of Dupuytren’s disease, before significant contracture
Wish to delay or avoid surgery
Prefer a non-surgical treatment with minimal side effects

Your radiation oncologist will review your symptoms and hand examination to determine suitability.

What to Expect

Consultation and assessment – Your clinician reviews symptoms, medical history, and imaging.
Personalised plan – A tailored plan targets affected tissue while protecting healthy skin.
Treatment sessions – Each session lasts only a few minutes, is painless, and requires no anaesthetic.
Follow-up care – Your progress is monitored; a second short course may be offered several months later if needed.

Side Effects

Side effects are uncommon due to the very low radiation dose. Some people may experience mild dryness or temporary skin warmth in the treated area. These effects usually resolve quickly.

Why choose Icon?

At Icon, we’re committed to delivering the highest quality care, close to home. We combine advanced radiation technology with a team of experienced clinicians who specialise in treatments like LDRT. We’re here to:

Provide care grounded in international evidence and clinical expertise,
Deliver treatment that is safe, precise, and tailored to your needs, and
Work alongside your existing care team to ensure a coordinated approach.

Our focus is on helping you move more comfortably and regain quality of life, supported by a team who puts your care first.

Frequently asked questions

LDRT is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses very low doses of radiation to reduce inflammation and ease pain. It can help improve mobility and make daily activities more comfortable. LDRT is intended to complement existing treatments, such as physiotherapy, exercise programs, or medication, rather than replace them.
Yes. LDRT uses a very small dose of radiation (about 3 Gray (Gy) total, compared to 60Gy for cancer treatment) which means the risk of side effects is minimal. It has been safely used internationally for more than a decade.
While both use the same technology, LDRT uses a much lower dose of radiation. Cancer treatments aim to destroy cancer cells, whereas LDRT targets inflammation, helping reduce pain and stiffness. The ultra-low dose used in LDRT means the risk of side effects is very low.
LDRT is delivered as a quick, outpatient treatment. You’ll lie on a treatment bed while a machine delivers radiation precisely to the affected area. The procedure is painless, does not require anaesthetic, and typically takes only a few minutes. Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after each session.
Side effects are rare and minimal because of the very low radiation dose used. Some patients may notice mild skin changes, but these effects are uncommon and usually short-lived. Your clinician will discuss any potential risks with you during your consultation.

References

1. NHS (2024). Dupuytren’s contracture. National Health Service (UK).
2. British Society for Surgery of the Hand (2023). Dupuytren’s disease.
3. Patient.info (2024) Dupuytren’s contracture.
4. Hohendorff B et al. (2024). Low-dose radiotherapy in early-stage Dupuytren’s disease: Evidence and outcomes. Radiation Oncology.
5. Trott K R (2024). Radiation therapy for benign diseases: Evidence and experience in Europe. Advances in Oncology.
6. Seegenschmiedt M H et al. (2015). Radiotherapy for non-malignant disorders: Dupuytren’s disease and related conditions.