The role of botulinum toxin in vasospastic disorders of the hand

Hand Clin. 2015 Feb;31(1):23-37. doi: 10.1016/j.hcl.2014.09.003. Epub 2014 Nov 25.

Abstract

Raynaud phenomenon may be a primary disorder or associated with a variety of other autoimmune processes. Raynaud phenomenon produces digital vasospasm, which can lead to ischemia and ulceration. The treatment of Raynaud phenomenon has been difficult because multiple medical treatments have not provided uniform resolution of symptoms. Many patients have turned to surgery and sympathectomies for the treatment of unrelenting vasospasm. Botulinum toxin has been shown to be an effective alternative to surgery, with a single treatment being capable of resolving pain and healing ulcer. This article reviews the use of botulinum toxin for the treatment of Raynaud phenomenon.

Keywords: Botox; Botulinum toxin; Ischemia; Pain; Raynaud; Vasodilation; Vasospasm.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / administration & dosage*
  • Cardiovascular Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Hand / blood supply*
  • Hand / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Ischemia / diagnosis
  • Ischemia / drug therapy*
  • Ischemia / physiopathology
  • Neuromuscular Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Raynaud Disease / diagnosis
  • Raynaud Disease / drug therapy*
  • Raynaud Disease / physiopathology
  • Vasoconstriction / drug effects

Substances

  • Cardiovascular Agents
  • Neuromuscular Agents
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A