Relapsed clubfoot correction with soft-tissue release and selective application of Ilizarov technique

The Ilizarov technique is an alternative for the treatment of complex foot deformities in children. The authors retrospectively reviewed children with relapsed clubfoot deformity, treated with soft tissue procedures and additional correction with an Ilizarov frame. Twelve consecutive patients (13 feet) with relapsed clubfoot deformity after previous surgical correction were reviewed. Treatment included open releases. An Ilizarov frame was applied as an adjunct in seven patients (mean age of 7.8 years) with severe deformity where complete intraoperative correction was not achieved. Clinical and radiographic assessment was undertaken. The mean Laaveg–Ponseti score, for the 7 feet treated with the Ilizarov frame, was 85.1 after minimum 4 years follow-up. One recurrence of forefoot deformity required metatarsal osteotomies. Postoperative radiographic measurements revealed values that can be considered as normal. Complications included pin tract infections (12% of inserted wires). Flat-topped talus was observed in 3 feet. Deformity correction was possible when soft tissue procedures were combined with the use of Ilizarov technique, in order to support and gradually improve surgical correction.     

The Ilizarov method for the treatment of resistant clubfoot: is it an effective solution?

The resistant clubfoot deformity presents a significant challenge. Several corrective procedures have been described, with the goal to provide a pain-free, plantigrade foot. The Ilizarov method of external fixation and gradual distraction has been reported as an alternative to conventional techniques. Previous reviews have concluded that this method can provide satisfactory correction and outcome. This study presents a review of 21 resistant clubfeet in 17 patients, who had undergone previous surgery, treated with Ilizarov external fixation and gradual distraction by 1 of 2 surgeons. Outcome measures were graded based on function and presence of residual deformity: (a) excellent (painless, plantigrade foot, with no functional limitations); (b) good (plantigrade foot in a patient able to ambulate long distances with mild pain; (c) fair (mild residual deformity, required bracing, and/or had some functional limitations but an active life); and (d) poor (significant residual deformity, pain, and activity limitations). Radiographic measures of the talocalcaneal and talo-first metatarsal angles were compared preoperatively and postoperatively. At an average follow-up of 6.64 years (range, 2.25-10.50 years), 9.5% (2) achieved an excellent result; 4.8% (1), good; 33.3% (7), fair; and 52.4% (11), poor. All 11 of the feet graded poor required revision surgery at an average of 5.63 years postoperatively (range, 2.67-10.2 years). Only the talo-first metatarsal angle displayed a clinically and statistically significant correction. We conclude that the Ilizarov method for treatment of resistant clubfoot deformities results in poor outcome associated with residual or recurrent deformity, often requiring revision surgery.     

Ilizarov external fixation for management of severe relapsed clubfeet in older children

BackgroundAlthough the standard treatment of clubfoot deformity is conservative by serial casting techniques, relapses are not uncommon. Management of relapsed clubfoot deformity in older children is an orthopedic challenge. There is a growing interest in management of such complex deformities using the Ilizarov technique.MethodsIn this study, the Ilizarov frame was used to correct severe relapsed clubfoot deformities in older children, whom underwent previous surgical interventions. 42 relapsed clubfeet were included. The Dimeglio classification was used for clinical assessment of the relapsed feet pre-operatively as well as post-operatively.ResultsAfter an average follow-up period of 4.6 years, and according to the Beatson and Pearson numerical assessment, favorable results (excellent or good) were found in 37 feet, while poor results took place in only five feet.ConclusionBased on the final clinical and radiographic results, the Ilizarov technique could be considered as a good management alternative for such severe deformities.     

Ilizarov外固定架治疗青少年Ⅲ度马蹄内翻足畸形

目的探讨Ilizarov外固定架治疗青少年Ⅲ度马蹄内翻足畸形的临床疗效。方法应用研究Ilizarov技术,结合有限矫形手术治疗12例多种原因引起的青少年Ⅲ度马蹄内翻足畸形患者(17足)。术后佩戴外固定架。结果 12例均获随访,时间12~49个月。佩戴外固定架时间8~12周。畸形矫正均满意,截骨处均骨性愈合,足负重行走功能良好。根据国际马蹄足畸形研究会(ICFSG)评分系统:优10足,良6足,可1足。无严重并发症发生。结论应用Ilizarov技术结合有限的矫形手术,遵循个体化和局限化的原则,能够矫正传统矫形手术难以治疗的Ⅲ度马蹄内翻足畸形,疗效满意。     

Management of severe relapsed clubfeet in older children by the Ilizarov external fixation

Introduction

Although the standard treatment of clubfoot deformity is conservative by serial casting techniques, relapses are not uncommon. Management of relapsed clubfoot deformity in older children is an orthopedic challenge. There is a growing interest in management of such complex deformities using the Ilizarov technique.

Patients and methods

In this study, the Ilizarov frame was used to correct severe relapsed clubfoot deformities in older children, who underwent previous surgical interventions. Forty-two relapsed clubfeet were included. The Dimeglio classification was used for clinical assessment of the relapsed feet preoperatively as well as postoperatively.

Results

According to the Beatson and Pearson’s numerical assessment, favorable results (excellent or good) were found in 37 feet, while poor results took place in only five feet.

Conclusions

Based on the final clinical and radiographic results, the Ilizarov technique could be considered as a good management alternative for such severe deformities.     

Correction of severe recurrent clubfoot using a simplified setting of the Ilizarov device

BACKGROUND: Severe recurrent clubfoot deformities are challenging to treat. The Ilizarov method offers a safer alternative; however, the management of the device is complex. METHODS: A simplified standard setting of the Ilizarov device was used to treat 29 patients (35 feet) with a mean age of 14 years with severely stiff recurrent clubfoot deformities and large scars caused by one or more previous surgeries. This simplification involved a correction in two stages: first a gradual correction of the equinus, varus, cavus, and adduction deformities and later an acute correction of the supination deformity. All feet underwent percutaneous Achilles tenotomy and plantar fasciotomy; 11 feet required an additional midfoot osteotomy. The final outcome was scored as good (complete correction and no pain); fair (partial correction with plantigrade foot and occasional pain); or poor (nonplantigrade foot and continuous pain during walking). RESULTS: After a mean followup of 56 months, the results were good in 27 feet (77%), fair in five feet (14%), and poor in three feet (9%). Early complications were complete dislocation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in two feet and partial dislocation of the distal tibial epiphysis in two feet. Late complications were recurrence of the deformity (11 feet), spontaneous ankylosis (16 feet), and symptomatic foot and ankle arthritis (7 feet). Arthrodesis was performed in 13 feet at an average of 21 months after the index surgery to treat symptomatic arthritis or correct disabling residual deformities. CONCLUSIONS: The Ilizarov device allowed correction of all the complex deformities of severe recurrent clubfoot with minimal operative intervention. Complications were numerous but manageable and for the most part did not compromise overall patient satisfaction in this very difficult to treat clinical condition.     

Correction of neglected clubfoot using the Ilizarov external fixator

BACKGROUND: This study was conducted to evaluate the corrective capability of the Ilizarov external fixator in the treatment of neglected clubfoot. METHODS: Thirty patients (38 feet) with a mean age of 19 (5 to 39) years with severe deformities and stiff feet associated with neglected clubfoot were studied. A limited soft-tissue dissection, Achilles tenotomy, and plantar fasciotomy were done. Progressive correction of the deformities was achieved through a standard setting of the Ilizarov external fixator. The device was used for 16 weeks, on average, and after removal a short-leg walking cast was used for an additional 6 weeks, followed by an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) for 6 months. RESULTS: The final outcome was scored as good (complete correction and no pain); fair (partial correction with plantigrade foot and occasional pain); or poor (nonplantigrade foot and continuous pain during walking). After a mean followup of 58 (range 12 to 107) months, the results were good in 30 feet (78.9%); fair in three feet (7.9%); and poor in five feet (13.2%). Early complications were a distal tibial fracture in one foot, dislocation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in one foot, and arterial damage that resulted in amputation of the toes in one foot. Recurrence of the deformity was found in 19 feet (50%): 11 minor, three mild, and five severe. Spontaneous ankylosis developed in 28 feet (73.7%). Nine feet (23.7%) required arthrodesis for symptomatic arthritis of the ankle or midfoot and deformity that could not be treated with orthoses. CONCLUSION: The Ilizarov external fixator allows simultaneous correction of all the severe foot deformities associated with neglected clubfoot with minimal surgery, reducing risks of cutaneous or neurovascular complications and avoiding excessive shortening of the foot. Even in those patients in whom final corrective arthrodesis is necessary, this may be carried out with minimal bone resection, since the severe deformities of the foot and ankle have been corrected.     

Treatment of severe residual clubfoot deformity by trans-midtarsal osteotomy.

This study reviews the preliminary results of transmidtarsal osteotomy performed on 11 patients (12 feet) who previously underwent surgery for resistant clubfoot and needed further surgery for severe residual deformities. Opening wedge medial cuneiform osteotomy, closing wedge cuboid osteotomy, and truncated wedge middle and lateral cuneiform osteotomy were performed. The procedure was performed initially on normal cadaver feet. The average improvement of anteroposterior talo-first metatarsal angle was 20 degrees and lateral calcaneo-first metatarsal angle was 16 degrees. The authors conclude that with this simple procedure, angular and rotational correction in three planes can be obtained simultaneously in severe residual clubfoot deformity without the need for extensive soft tissue release.     

V osteotomy and Ilizarov technique for residual idiopathic or neurogenic clubfeet

PURPOSE. To report the treatment outcomes of V osteotomy and Ilizarov technique for residual idiopathic or neurogenic clubfeet. METHODS. 13 patients (14 feet) aged 8 to 18 years underwent V osteotomy via the calcaneus and talus, followed by gradual distraction of soft tissue and bone for foot reconstruction. Eight of the clubfeet were idiopathic and had undergone previous surgeries. The remaining 6 were neurogenic and their pathologies were: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (n=2), myelomeningocele (n=2), neurofibromatosis (n=1), and distal arthrogryposis (n=1). Three of them had undergone previous surgeries. The Ilizarov frames were retained for 3 to 6 months and the patients were followed up for 1.8 to 8.9 years. Range of movement of the ankle and foot, appearance and position, gait, pain, function, and patient satisfaction were assessed according to the modified clubfoot grading system. The talo-1st metatarsal angle was measured on anteroposterior radiographs. RESULTS. Scores associated with the appearance and position of the foot, and thus patient satisfaction were significantly improved, but not for range of movement, pain, and function. The mean preoperative and final talo-1st metatarsal angles were 39.7 and 8.7 degrees, respectively (p<0.01). Ten feet achieved the plantigrade position, one had residual equinus, and 3 had residual adduction and supination. CONCLUSION. Patient satisfaction improved significantly despite no major improvement in pain, function, and range of movement of the ankle and foot. This reflects the importance of the appearance and position of the foot, and justifies the decision to undergo this long and demanding procedure.     

有限矫形手术与Ilizarov技术治疗青少年先天性马蹄内翻足

目的观察应用有限矫形手术与Ilizarov技术治疗青少年先天性马蹄内翻足(congenital clubfoot,CCF)的临床疗效,探讨CCF外科矫正与功能重建新技术、新理念。方法 2003年9月-2010年7月,收治25例40足青少年CCF。男14例20足,女11例20足;年龄12～25岁,平均15.7岁。左足4例,右足6例,双足15例。根据秦氏马蹄内翻足畸形分度:Ⅰ度9足,Ⅱ度17足,Ⅲ度14足。合并小腿内旋畸形9足,右侧髋关节半脱位1例。采用有限软组织松解与骨性截骨手术后,9足Ⅰ度畸形者安装组合式外固定器,31足残留畸形安装Ilizarov外固定牵伸器。术后5～7 d开始矫正,以0.5～1.0 mm/d为宜;待踝关节矫正至过伸5～10°,足呈轻度外翻后停止牵伸,矫正位携带外固定架并负重行走4～6周。双足畸形患者分两期进行手术,手术间隔3～6个月,平均4个月。结果 9足术后佩戴组合式外固定器6～12周,平均8周;31足佩戴Ilizarov外固定牵伸器6～17周,平均13周。患者均获随访,随访时间8个月～6年,平均37个月。牵拉矫形期间6例6足发生针道轻度感染,均经对症处理后感染消失。术后2年1例1足畸形部分复发,经再次安装Ilizarov外固定牵伸器负重行走4周,矫正满意;其余畸形足在随访期内均获得满意矫正和全足底持重。末次随访时根据国际马蹄足畸形研究会(ICFSG)的评分系统,获优28足,良10足,可2足,优良率95%。结论有限矫形手术结合Ilizarov技术矫治青少年CCF,符合生物学原理和微创外科原则,安全、微创、疗效确切。该马蹄内翻足手术矫形策略遵循骨科自然重建理念,尤其适用于传统矫形骨科手术难以治疗的Ⅲ度CCF。     

Volume of tarsal bones in congenital clubfoot

To elucidate the growth of the tarsal bones in congenital clubfoot, relative to the growth of these bones in the unaffected feet and compared to growth in the feet of normal volunteers, we used a computed tomography (CT) scanner to measure the volume of all tarsal bones. The subjects of the study were 10 adults (7 men and 3 women) with unilateral congenital clubfoot (average age 20 years and 1 month). As controls, we examined 11 healthy volunteers. We calculated the ratio of the volume of each tarsal bone to the total bone volume and the ratio of the volume of each tarsal bone in clubfoot to the corresponding bone in the unaffected foot. The volume ratio of each tarsal bone was compared between clubfeet and unaffected feet because the differences of each tarsal bone ratio between the normal foot group and unaffected foot group were not significant. In the clubfeet (n=10), the talus and the medial cuneiform bones were smaller than those in the unaffected feet (n=10) but the cuboid bone was larger. The growth of the navicular did not differ from as that in unaffected feet. Our results suggested hypoplasia on the medial side of the foot in adult patients with congenital clubfoot. The 3 patients who had undergone medial release showed particularly marked hypoplasia of the medial side. In congenital clubfoot cases with severe deformities who had undergone wide soft-tissue release operations, there were clear growth suppressions in the talus and the medial cuneiform. We could not determine whether the cause of the growth suppression was the hypoplastic nature of tarsal bones themselves or the surgical obstacles to tarsal bone growth.     

Correction of complex foot deformities using the Ilizarov external fixator.

There are many drawbacks to using conventional approaches to the treatment of complex foot deformities, like the increased risk of neurovascular injury, soft-tissue injury, and the shortening of the foot. An alternative approach that can eliminate these problems is the Ilizarov method. In the current study, a total of 23 deformed feet in 22 patients were treated using the Ilizarov method. The etiologic factors were burn contracture, poliomyelitis, neglected and relapsed clubfoot, trauma, gun shot injury, meningitis, and leg-length discrepancy (LLD). The average age of the patients was 18.2 (5-50) years. The mean duration of fixator application was 5.1 (2-14) months. We performed corrections without an osteotomy in nine feet and with an osteotomy in 14 feet. Additional bony corrective procedures included three tibial and one femoral osteotomies for lengthening and deformity correction, and one tibiotalar arthrodesis in five separate extremities. At the time of fixator removal, a plantigrade foot was achieved in 21 of the 23 feet by pressure mat analysis. Compared to preoperative status, gait was subjectively improved in all patients. Follow-up time from surgery averaged 25 months (13-38). Pin-tract problems were observed in all cases. Other complications were toe contractures in two feet, metatarsophalangeal subluxation from flexor tendon contractures in one foot, incomplete osteotomy in one foot, residual deformity in two feet, and recurrence of deformity in one foot. Our results indicate that the Ilizarov method is an effective alternative means of correcting complex foot deformities, especially in feet that previously have undergone surgery.     

Functional outcome of salvage of residual and recurrent deformities of clubfoot with Ilizarov technique

Relapse may occur in severe clubfeet deformities whether treated surgically or nonsurgically. In this study, we evaluate the results of correction of residual and recurrent congenital clubfoot using soft tissue distraction or osteotomy using the Ilizarov external fixation system. This study included 35 feet in 28 patients who were treated between 1999 and 2007. Of these 16 feet in 13 patients with an average age of 13.7 years (range from 11 to 29 years) were treated by percutaneous calcaneal V-osteotomy and gradual correction by the Ilizarov method. Nineteen feet in 15 patients with an average age 10.5 years (range from 4 to 22 years) were treated by soft tissue distraction by the Ilizarov technique. The mean average follow up period was 5.6 years (range from 1 to 8 years). At the time of fixator removal, a plantigrade foot was achieved in 30 feet. Mild residual varus and equinus deformities were present in five feet.At the final follow foot pressure measurement showed recurrent or residual deformity in 10 feet (7 treated by osteotomy and 3 treated by soft tissue distraction). Recurrence may occur with both techniques, depending on many factors such as bone morphology, the number of the pervious operations and the degree of stiffness of the foot prior to the operation.     

Resistant clubfoot deformities managed by Ilizarov distraction histogenesis

Background:

Resistant clubfoot deformities of the foot and ankle remain a difficult problem even for the most experienced surgeon. We report a series of neglected resistant clubfoot deformities treated by limited surgery and Ilizarov distraction histogenesis.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty one patients with 27 feet having resistant clubfoot deformities were managed by Ilizarov distraction histogenesis from April 2005 to May 2008. The mean age was 12 years (range 8–20 years). A limited soft tissue dissection like percutaneous Achilles sheath tenotomy and plantar fasciotomy were done. Progressive correction of the deformities was achieved through the standard and simple Ilizarov frame construct setting. After removal of Ilizarov frame, a short leg walking cast was used for an additional 6 weeks, followed by an ankle foot orthrosis for 3 months.

Results:

The mean followup period was 18.7 months (range 20-36 months). The mean duration of fixator application was 3.6 months (range 3–5 months). At the time of removal of the fixator, a plantigrade foot was achieved in 25 feet and gait was improved in all patients. There was residual varus hind foot deformity in two patients. Out of 27 feet, 3 (11.11%) were rated as excellent, 17 (62.96%) as good, 5 (18.51%) as fair, and 2 (7.40%) as poor according to Reinkerand Carpenter scale. Excellent and good results (74.07%) were considered satisfactory, while fair and poor results (25.92%) were considered unsatisfactory.

Conclusion:

The short term clinical and functional results of resistant clubfoot deformities with Ilizarov''s external fixator is promising and apparently a good option.     

Biomechanical analysis of functional adaptation of metatarsal bones in statically deformed feet

We analysed the functional adaptation of the first and second metatarsal bones to altered strain in flexible flatfoot. Fifty consecutive women (20-40 years of age) were enrolled: 31 patients with a flexible flatfoot and metatarsalgia (59 feet) and 19 controls with asymptomatic feet (37 feet). They were compared for cortical thickness (medial, lateral, dorsal and plantar) of the two bones. The null hypothesis of no overall difference between the deformed and healthy feet with regard to cortical thicknesses of the two bones was rejected in a multivariate test (p = 0.046). The groups differed significantly only regarding dorsal cortical thickness of the second metatarsal, which was around 18.1% greater in the deformed feet (95% confidence interval: 7.7-28.4%, p < 0.001). Hypertrophy of the dorsal corticalis of the second metatarsal bone appears to be the main metatarsal adaptive reaction to altered strain in the flexible flatfoot.     

Revision surgery in clubfeet.

The reoperated clubfeet of 29 children aged one to 12 years were reviewed. The surgical procedure most often used in revision surgery was recomplete soft-tissue release alone or combined with plantar release, calcaneocuboid fusion, and capsulotomies of the navicular-first cuneiform-first metatarsal joint. In 27 of 29 feet, acceptable results were achieved. Nineteen were excellent and good results. An algorithm that suggests surgical solutions to a variety of clubfoot deformities in different age groups has been developed, as well as an objective rating system, to evaluate the long-term results of revision surgery of clubfeet.     

Assessment of percutaneous V osteotomy of the calcaneus with Ilizarov application for correction of complex foot deformities

Complex foot deformity can be described as a foot with multiplanar abnormalities with or without shortening of the foot. Conventional surgical treatment may not be able to correct these deformities. In this study we evaluate the results of percutaneous V osteotomy of the calcaneus with an Ilizarov external fixator for treatment of complex foot deformity. Twenty feet with a complex deformity were treated by the Ilizarov method in 15 patients. The aetiologic factors were neglected or relapsed clubfoot (13 patients) and poliomyelitis (2 patients). All patients underwent percutaneous V osteotomy of the calcaneus and gradual correction of the deformity using Ilizarov's method. The mean duration of fixator application was 9.5 months (range, 6-13 months). The mean follow-up period was 1.8 years (range, 1 to 3 years). At the time of fixator removal, a plantigrade foot was achieved in 18 cases; gait was improved in all patients. There was residual varus deformity in two patients. A pin-tract infection was observed in all patients. No recurrence of the deformity occurred. The V osteotomy offers the most options for correction of complex foot deformities. Percutaneous technique is particularly useful for the complex foot deformity that has poor skin coverage, with poor blood supply. Gradual correction with the Ilizarov method yields good results for complex foot deformities.     

Ponseti method in the treatment of post-operative relapsed idiopathic clubfoot after posteromedial release. A short term functional study

BackgroundRelapsed clubfeet deformity after surgical treatment by posteromedial release are frequently encountered in pediatric orthopedic practice and further revision surgery may be needed. As surgery adds more fibrosis and scaring, complication may be devastating and treatment is challenging. Ponseti method, the gold standard technique for treatment of clubfoot may be of a value in the management of postoperative relapses.Aim of the studyDetermine the effectiveness of Ponseti casting Method in treatment of relapsed idiopathic clubfoot in children after being treated with surgical posteromedial release.Materials and methodsProspective interventional study of 17 patients (25 feet) presented with a relapsed idiopathic clubfoot deformity after previous surgical posteromedial release. The patients were reviewed using Pirani and Dimeglio score. Ponseti method was done to obtain supple, flexible foot rather than a fully corrected foot, the residual deformity were treated by, heel cord lengthening or tenotomy, tibialis anterior transfer, follow up was for a minimum of 12 months.Result17 Patients (25 feet) their age ranging from 1 to 10 years were evaluated and treated. Casts were applied until the only deformities remaining were either hindfoot equinus and/or dynamic supination.22 feet required a heel cord procedure for equinus and 13 required tibialis anterior transfer for dynamic supination. The follow up (average 56.1 months) was for a minimum of one year. 4 feet had persistent heel varus deformity which required Calcaneal osteotomy later. Three feet didn’t need more casting and 2 feet were resistant cases that required further Ilizarov procedure, 4 needed lateral arch shortening and other 4 needed posterior capsulotomy. Improvement in the Pirani and Dimeglio scores was highly statistically significant.ConclusionPonseti method for treatment of relapsed clubfeet after a previous posteromedial soft tissue surgical release is an effective, non invasive, with excellent results.     

Analyse tridimensionnelle de la mobilité des métatarsiens lors de la mise en charge du pied

Knowing the mobility of the metatarsal bones is important in understanding forefoot mechanical problems. The purpose of this study was to develop a specific method of quantifying the metatarsal motion of normal adult feet under progressive closed-chain loading conditions. A specially designed loading device was constructed to apply axial loads. Loading control was made possible using a setscrew and real-time plantar pressure measurement system. Computed tomography (CT) scans of four feet were analyzed with special medical imaging software. The average spatial motion of the metatarsals measured from 2.3 to 4.1°, with a proximal articular motion of 0.6 to 4.0° at total axial load. The results for the specific three-dimensional movement axes indicate that lateral metatarsal motion was in adduction, supination and dorsiflexion; medial metatarsal motion was in adduction, supination and plantar flexion. These data demonstrate the reality of tarsometatarsal mobility, even for the second ray, and establish an objective reference for the development of surgical procedures and forefoot modelling.     

The incidence and treatment of rocker bottom deformity as a complication of the conservative treatment of idiopathic congenital clubfoot.

Rocker bottom deformity may occur during the conservative treatment of idiopathic congenital clubfoot. Between 1975 and 1996, we treated 715 patients (1120 clubfeet) conservatively. A total of 23 patients (36 feet; 3.2%) developed a rocker bottom deformity. It is these patients that we have studied. The pathoanatomy of the rocker bottom deformity is characterised by a plantar convexity appearing between three and six months of age with the hindfoot equinus position remaining constant. The convexity initially involves the medial column, radiologically identified by the talo-first metatarsal angle and secondly by the lateral column, revealed radiologically as the calcaneo-fifth metatarsal angle. The apex of the deformity is usually at the midtrasal with a dorsal calcaneocuboid subluxation. Ideal management of clubfoot deformity should avoid this complication, with adequate manipulation and splinting and early Achilles' percutaneous tenotomy if plantar convexity occurs. Adequate soft-tissue release provides satisfactory correction for rocker bottom deformity. However, this deformity requires more extensive and complex procedures than the standard surgical treatment of clubfoot. The need for lateral radiographs to ensure that the rocker bottom deformity is recognised early, is demonstrated.