What is Digit Widget surgery?

Design. The Digit Widget is an external fixation system designed to apply an extension torque to the Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) joint of a finger. This device helps regain, maintain, or increase extension of the PIP joint.

Does the digit widget work?

The Digit Widget is an effective tool in the treatment of moderate to severe PIP flexion contractures because it is able to extend a contracted PIP joint without surgical release of the volar structures, if the tissues are compliant and the joint is intact.

How long does it take to recover from Dupuytren’s contracture surgery?

It can take two months or more to fully return to your normal activities after surgery. Try to keep moving your fingers to relieve pain and stiffness. Massaging your fingers or applying heat can also help with movement and discomfort.

What is a widget digit?

The Digit Widget is a dynamic external fixator designed to provide an extension torque across the PIP joint for lengthening the palmar soft tissues in cases of severe Dupuytren’s disease. The torque exerted by the Digit Widget is transmitted through the digital skeleton, thereby obviating any forces on the skin.

How does a digit widget work?

The Digit Widget reverses these contractures by utilizing the principle that gentle force applied over time will stimulate growth of contracted soft tissues. The Digit Widget applies extension torque to reverse the contracture, instead of joint traction used by other methods.

How painful is Dupuytren’s surgery?

Surgical incisions will vary based on the extent of your Dupuytren’s contracture but may look like a zig-zag on the palmar surface of the finger and hand. Dupuytren’s contracture release can be painful. You will receive a prescription for narcotic pain medicine.

How long do you wear a splint after Dupuytren’s surgery?

Most people need to do hand therapy for several months. You also may need to wear a hand splint for 6 to 12 weeks after surgery.

What is a finger widget?

A surgical device created to aid in the treatment of PIP flexion contractures. Extension torque, transmitted to the joint by bone pins in the middle phalanx, “grows” all contracted palmar tissues back towards normal length.

What is joint Jack splint?

For PIP finger flexion contractures correction, the Joint Jack Finger Splint puts pressure on the finger to prevent movement. The amount of pressure can be adjusted with turning the screw. The splint, made of soft steel, can be bent for fitting. The splint includes a felt pad and cotton strap for additional comfort.

Can you drive after Dupuytren’s surgery?

Ask your doctor when you can drive again. You will probably need to take at least 1 to 2 weeks off from work. It depends on the type of work you do and how you feel. You may shower, but do not get your hand wet until your doctor says it is okay.

How soon can I drive after Dupuytren’s surgery?

How are digit widgets used for Dupuytren’s contracture?

Patient is diagnosed with recurrent Dupuytren’s Contracture. Two Digit Widgets were applied pre-fasciectomy to reverse the contracture: two small incisions were made to divide bands on the little finger with one incision adequate for the ring finger. The Digit Widget needs to be worn full time.

Why did Dr Agee use digit widgets on both fingers?

He has had no prior surgery. The patient sought treatment because he was no longer able to hold a golf club. Prior to performing a fasciectomy, Dr. Agee decided to use Digit Widgets on both affected fingers to facilitate access to the palm and fingers.

How are digit widgets used to treat PIP flexion?

Two Digit Widgets were applied pre-fasciectomy to reverse the contracture: two small incisions were made to divide bands on the little finger with one incision adequate for the ring finger. The Digit Widget needs to be worn full time. The dynamic portion of the device can be “clicked off” the finger for bathing and active flexion exercises.

How does the digit widget reverse the contracture?

The Digit Widget reverses these contractures by utilizing the principle that gentle force applied over time will stimulate growth of contracted soft tissues. The Digit Widget applies extension torque to reverse the contracture, instead of joint traction used by other methods.