Reconfiguration of elective orthopaedic surgery presents challenges and opportunities to develop outpatient pathways to reduce surgical waiting times. Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a benign progressive fibroproliferative disorder of the fascia in the hand, which can be disabling. Percutaneous-needle-fasciotomy (PNF) can be performed successfully in the outpatient clinic.

The Aberdeen hand-service has over 10 years' experience running dedicated PNF clinics. NHS Grampian covers a vast area of Scotland receiving over 11749 referrals to the orthopaedic unit yearly. 250 patients undergone PNF in the outpatient department annually. 100 patients who underwent PNF in outpatients (Jan2019–Jan2020).

79M, 21F. Average age 66 years range (29–87). 95 patients were right hand dominant. DD risk factors: 6 patients were diabetic, 2 epileptic, 87 patients drank alcohol. 76 patients had a family history of DD. Disease severity, single digit 20 patients, one hand multiple digits in 15 patients, bilateral hands in 65 patients of which 5 suffered form ectopic manifestation suggestive of Dupuytren's diasthesis. Using Tubiana Total flexion deformity score pre and post fasciotomy. Type 1 total flexion deformity (TFD) between 0–45 degrees pre PNF n=60 post N= 85, Type 2 TFD 45–90 degrees pre PNF n=18 post N=9, Type 3 TFD 90–135 pre PNF n=15 post N= 5, Type 4 TFD >135 pre PNF n=1 post PNF N=1. Using Chi-square statistical test, a significant difference was found at the p<0.05 between the pre and post PNF TFD. Complication: 8 recurrence, 1 skin tear. No patients sustained digital nerve injury.

Outpatients PNF clinics are a valuable resource.