FixxGlove night splints for Dupuytren’s contracture

FixxGlove® night splints for Dupuytren’s contracture

Gentle positioning and support for finger extension during the night

In Dupuytren's disease, affected fingers may remain bent towards the palm due to extension contracture and can no longer be fully extended. FixxGlove night splints were developed to position the fingers in a functional extended position overnight and to support the achieved condition.

With the FixxGlove product family, arthroven offers four night splints for different treatment situations in Dupuytren's disease. The models differ depending on the design in terms of splint guidance, material, washability, handling, and the fingers being treated.

What Is Dupuytren's Contracture?

Dupuytren's contracture, also known as Dupuytren's disease, is a benign condition affecting the connective tissue in the palm of the hand. It involves a thickening of the palmar aponeurosis, which is the connective tissue structure beneath the skin of the palm. Over time, this can lead to an increasing inability to straighten the affected fingers.

Over time, nodules and cord-like hardenings can form. This can cause affected fingers to increasingly bend and become unable to fully straighten. The ring finger and little finger are most commonly affected, but any finger can be involved.

It is important to note: In Dupuytren's disease, the flexor tendons themselves are not diseased. The restriction arises from altered connective tissue in the palm of the hand. Typical consequences can include limited finger extension, difficulty gripping, problems laying the hand flat, or restrictions in daily activities.

What treatment options are available?

Depending on the stage and severity, various procedures are available for treating Dupuytren's contracture. These include fasciotomy, limited fasciectomy, enzyme injections, radiotherapy in early active cases, and percutaneous needle fasciotomy (PNF).

For many patients, needle fasciotomy (PNF) is considered a particularly gentle procedure because hardened connective tissue cords can be released minimally invasively. It was originally developed by rheumatologists in France. Dr. Albrecht Meinel significantly shaped the method in Germany and combined it with a consistent night splint concept: the FixxGlove night splint.

It is important to note: Regardless of the chosen therapy method, Dupuytren's disease can progress again after months or years. A recurrence and thus another intervention are possible. This can create a burdensome cycle for affected individuals, consisting of treatment, renewed deterioration, and renewed need for care.

The solution: nocturnal extension splinting of the fingers for Dupuytren's

FixxGlove night splints were developed to position affected fingers in a functional extended position at night for Dupuytren's contracture. Depending on the individual situation, they can be used preventively, therapeutically, or postoperatively.

The goal is not to actively force the fingers straight, but to enable gentle positioning during rest and to support the achieved state.

Typical areas of application include:

  • onset or existing Dupuytren's contracture
  • restricted extension of individual fingers
  • supportive positioning during the night
  • care following medical or therapeutic recommendation
  • postoperative support after an intervention
  • functional support of the achieved treatment outcome

How do FixxGlove night splints work?

FixxGlove night splints combine a glove system with a moldable aluminum splint. The splint is adapted to the individual finger situation and supports the positioning of the affected fingers in a desired extended position.

The goal is gentle nocturnal extension positioning during the resting phase. This can reduce an unfavorable flexed position during sleep and functionally support the achieved state.

FixxGlove is not a dynamic splint. The models are not designed to actively or forcefully straighten fingers. The focus is on the controlled positioning of the fingers in a functional position – depending on the model, with splint guidance on the back of the hand or in the palm.

Differences between the FixxGlove models

Feature Classic Classic plus Super plus V super plus
Splint guidance On the back of the hand On the back of the hand In the palm of the hand In the palm of the hand
Supported fingers 3 fingers 3 fingers 3 fingers 3 fingers plus thumb and index finger
Material Natural leather Washable material with elastic Spantex on the back of the hand Washable material with elastic Spantex on the back of the hand Washable material with elastic Spantex on the back of the hand
Washable No Yes Yes Yes
Zip closure Yes Yes No No
Intelligent removal aid No Yes Yes Yes
Sizes S–XL XS–XXL XS–XXL S–XL
Medical aid number 23.07.01.0005 23.07.01.0008

For FixxGlove Classic plus and FixxGlove Super plus, reimbursement for up to two supplies per year may be possible with a medical prescription, depending on the health insurance provider.

Why FixxGlove night splints from arthroven?

FixxGlove represents a standardized care solution for Dupuytren's contracture that is clearly traceable for patients, specialist retailers, medical supply stores, and medical care providers. The models are designed for nocturnal finger extension splinting and differ in splint guidance, material, washability, and handling depending on the version.

Advantages at a glance:

  • specifically developed for nocturnal splinting in Dupuytren's contracture
  • malleable aluminum splint for individual adjustment
  • four models for different care situations
  • splint guidance on the back of the hand or in the palm of the hand
  • washable models available with elastic Spantex
  • clear variant logic for specialist retailers, care providers, and patients

Materials depending on model:

Natural leather or washable material with elastic Spantex on the back of the hand.

What to look for when choosing

To select the appropriate FixxGlove night splint, the treatment situation, affected fingers, splint design, and size should be carefully considered.

Important selection criteria are:

  • affected fingers and extent of extension deficit
  • desired splint design on the back of the hand or in the palm
  • material: natural leather or washable version with elastic Spantex
  • handling with zipper or intelligent pull-out aid
  • appropriate size based on metacarpal circumference
  • medical prescription and possible medical device number

The correct size is determined by the circumference of the metacarpus, excluding the thumb. The hand should be measured without a bandage and compared with the respective size chart of the chosen model.

Note: The available sizes differ depending on the FixxGlove model. Please refer to the information on the respective product page.

Application and Important Notes

FixxGlove night splints are intended for use during the night or while resting in bed. Wearing them during the day is not recommended, as fingers should remain mobile in everyday life and not be splinted permanently.

The splint should be used according to the instructions for use. It is adapted to the respective finger situation and positions the affected fingers in a desired position. A secure fit, proper adjustment, and regular monitoring of comfort are important.

Driving vehicles or operating machinery is not permitted while wearing the splint. In case of uncertainty, pressure points, pain, or questions about use, medical or professional advice should be sought.

Frequently Asked Questions about FixxGlove

What is FixxGlove used for?

FixxGlove is used for nighttime extension splinting of affected fingers in Dupuytren's contracture. The splint can help to keep the fingers in a functional position during rest.

Can I also wear FixxGlove during the day?

The FixxGlove is intended for use during the night or while at rest in bed. Wearing it during the day is not recommended, as your fingers should remain mobile for daily activities.

Will FixxGlove make my fingers completely straight again?

FixxGlove is not a dynamic splint and does not actively straighten the fingers. The night splint supports the functional positioning of the fingers and can accompany the achieved state. Complete correction cannot be guaranteed.

Can FixxGlove be used after surgery?

Depending on the individual situation, FixxGlove may be suitable for supportive nocturnal positioning after a procedure. Its use should always be medically or therapeutically coordinated post-operatively.

Which FixxGlove model is the right one for me?

The right model depends on the affected fingers, the desired splint guidance, the material, washability, and handling. The model overview helps with initial orientation. For medical indications, a selection in consultation with medical professionals is recommended.

How do I find the right size?

The size is based on the circumference of the palm without the thumb. The circumference of the palm is measured. The available sizes vary depending on the model, so the respective size chart on the product page should always be consulted.

With FixxGlove, arthroven offers four night splints for various Dupuytren's contracture care situations. On the respective product pages, you will find further information on splint design, material, sizes, application, care, and available versions.