I wouldn't expect that they inject collagenase in just nodules with no contraction. The therapy concept at trial is to weaken the cord with collagenase and then snap it. This is the same as for NA, but with an enzyme replacing the needle, you could call it an enzymatic aponeurotomy instead of a needle aponeurotomy. Because the trial aims to test this method they need to collect data on standardized treatment of standardized situations. Even if a collagenase injection would possible shrink your nodule I don't think they would do it as part of this trial, and using it outside the trial is not approved.

With Ledderhose big nodules and no/little contraction are quite normal. Here it would really make sense to inject the nodule and it would add another (though much smaller) market. But that's not included in the trial either.

Wolfgang
PS: good pictures! Congratulations for finding out how to do this!

Edited at 08.12.07 09:29

GPM,
Which finger was involved and where was the nodule located? Most of my concern I guess is the location of the nodule and where the majority of the cord is. Since the collagenase is supposed to dissolve the cord or weaken it, I question if it attacks the nodule also? And because of the size of my nodules it is hard to pin-point the bulk of the cord. If it diminishes the nodule that would be great.

Hi jocond, congratulations to your wife!!

I guess we really should set up a little user guide. The forum software is getting more sophisticated and not all functions are intuitive.

Wolfgang
PS: in the new software release (yet to be installed) uploading of pictures will be even easier!

The nodule is just below the second joint (first being palm joint, never could get the MCP/PIP thing right) on my ring finger. From what my doctor said, I think the Collagenase would have an effect on the nodule if the injection point was close enough. My injection point was at the first crease on my palm. With my finger fully extended it seems I can still feel the cord just below the nodule, but as you work your way down to the injection point is seems to be gone (or at least not detectable).

The cost - $1,000 a pop - will discourage injections of nodules that aren't currently causing problems. I have a couple of nodules that have aren't accompanied by contractures and have been unchanged for years.