Xiaflex Can Treat Dupuytren’s Contracture
Xiaflex (Colleganase clostridium histolyticum) is a prescription medication for adults suffering from Dupuytren’s Contracture, a soft tissue problem that causes contractures in the hand. It has been on the market since 2010 and is the only non-invasive medicine for Dupuytren’s Contracture.
How is Xiaflex Administered?
Xiaflex is administered to the affected site via injections.
“We’re injecting the medication right into the tissue you can feel,” said Dr. Chad Micucci, an orthopedic surgeon at Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates.
Anywhere from one to three separate injections may be needed. The day after the injection(s), the patient would need to come back for the manipulation, where doctors will straighten the affected fingers out to straighten the cord.
Who Should Take Xiaflex?
Xiaflex is recommended for most adults suffering from Dupuytren’s Contracture. Those who are immune-compromised for whatever reason may want to discuss options with their doctors beforehand.
“There are certainly medical issues that we’d say this might not be the best thing for you, just because of the aggressiveness of the medicine,” said Dr. Micucci.
Other people that doctors are cautious about are people on blood thinners. Doctors would still recommend the injection to the patient, but keep a close eye on the hand afterward for increased swelling and bruising.
What are Possible Side Effects of Xiaflex?
Xiaflex carries few known side effects. However, side effects that did present themselves were found to do so because of the aggressiveness of the drug. Those taking Xiaflex may experience swelling or bruising of the affected hand. But Dr. Micucci says this is just the medication doing its job.
Other side effects may include
- Rash or blisters at the injection site
- Swelling of lymph nodes in the neck or armpit
- Anaphylactic reactions were found to be extremely rare.
Overall, doctors believe the benefits of Xiaflex far outweigh the drawbacks, especially given alternatives such as surgery.
Possible Recurrence
About one-third of people who have been given Xiaflex have had a recurrence of Dupuytren’s Contracture. Those who experience a recurrence are usually able to receive another injection. The severity of the recurrence would be evaluated by doctors.
“The question would be whether they would need anything done or not, because what you base your recurrence on is how much of a degree of contracture you get,” said Dr. Micucci.
Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates
Dr. Chad Micucci is able to treat Dupuytren’s Contracture with Xiaflex injections right in the MOA office. If you think you may be suffering from Dupuytren’s, please call for a consultation today! 304-599-0720
To learn more about Dr. Micucci, visit his site here!
Next week, we will talk about what to expect during and after the injection procedure! Stay tuned!