Onset of developmental dysplasia of the hip during clubfoot treatment: report of two cases and review of patients with both deformities followed at a single institution

Developmental dysplasia of the hip and idiopathic clubfoot are common musculoskeletal conditions in the pediatric orthopedic population. Although ultrasound or radiographic screening is generally recommended to rule out occult hip dysplasia, it has been suggested that children with clubfoot should no longer be screened. We report two cases of newborns with unilateral clubfoot and bilaterally stable hips that developed unilateral hip dysplasia on the same side as the foot deformity during clubfoot treatment. All cases previously reported in the literature are reviewed. We recommend systematic hip ultrasound screening in patients with idiopathic clubfoot. A second hip ultrasound or a pelvis radiograph, if the ossific nucleus has appeared, should be performed after completion of the clubfoot treatment if clinical examination is abnormal.     

Comparative results of the conservative treatment in clubfoot by two different protocols

The current study aims at presenting the results of the two methods of conservative treatment in clubfoot: the Romanian traditional method and the Ponseti method. The study population included 103 children (148 clubfeet) treated in our department between 1998 and 2005. Between 1998 and 2003, the conservative treatment protocol was based upon the Romanian method. The Ponseti method has been used since 2004. The main criterion for the assessment of the efficiency of the two conservative methods in clubfoot is the number of feet requiring surgical treatment - posteromedial release at 18 months. This criterion is clearly in favor of the Ponseti method: four feet (5%) needed posteromedial release in Ponseti group patients versus 13 feet (18%) in Romanian group patients (P=0.0193). The Ponseti method is safe, efficient in the conservative treatment of clubfoot and decreases the number of surgical interventions needed for the correction of the deformation compared with our traditional method.     

A rare case of bilateral large osteolysis following cemented and cementless total knee arthroplasties

Current methods of measurement were reassessed by the study of tibial torsion in 1000 normal legs using the tropometer, the caliper and X-rays. No significant difference in the reproducibility of results was found and the simpler clinical methods appeared to be satisfactory for practical purposes. The spontaneous evolution of leg torsion in clubfoot was studied in forty-two neglected and previously untreated cases, who were seen for the first time after they had begun walking. Comparison with the torsion observed in the legs of healthy children of a corresponding age proved that untreated clubfoot is not associated with pathological torsion. The place of rotation osteotomy in the treatment of clubfoot is discussed.     

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on clubfoot program at tertiary care institute

PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic had serious impact on health care sector. During reprioritisation of the services, elective and non-emergency procedures were suspended, with gradual resumption of services after lockdown was over. In this study we assessed the impact of pandemic on our clubfoot program at a tertiary care institute. Also, we discussed the future challenges and strategies to re-start our clubfoot program.MethodsData was collected retrospectively regarding registrations, demography and procedures done at our clubfoot centre. Study period was 25 March to 31 December 2020 and it was compared with same duration from previous years 2019 and 2018. After the data analysis, the findings were discussed on departmental committee meeting, future challenges were considered and strategies were charted out for re-establishing the clubfoot program at our Institute.ResultsWhen compared to previous year, we noted 46% decline in paediatric outpatient registrations and 60% decline in new clubfoot registrations at our centre. The clubfoot follow-up visits reduced by 30% in the pandemic year 2020. 80% of clubfoot registrations were local residents during pandemic year, which was 54%, 58% in year 2019 and 2018 respectively. The percentage of neglected cases remained stable, however, share of relapse cases increased during pandemic year. There was 80% decline in number of tenotomies and 90% decline in other clubfoot surgeries performed during pandemic year 2020 compared to year 2019.ConclusionCOVID-19 pandemic had definite disruptive impact on our clubfoot program. With decreased new registrations, follow-up visits and increased relapses, we anticipate a significant increase in clubfoot cases in need of casting & treatment. To deal with pent-up demand and an anticipated wave of relapse and neglected clubfoot cases, we have proposed strategies to re-establish clubfoot program in post-pandemic new-normal. We hope these will prepare us for any adversaries we face.     

Comparative evaluation and analysis of outcomes in non-idiopathic and idiopathic clubfeet with Ponseti method at a tertiary care centre of a developing country

BackgroundIdiopathic clubfoot (congenital talipes equinovarus, CTEV) is being managed worldwide by Ponseti method with high success rates, while for non-idiopathic clubfoot surgical interventions is being widely used with variable results. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Ponseti method in non-idiopathic clubfoot and compared the results with idiopathic clubfoot.MethodsThe paper evaluated the epidemiological incidence and demographic profile of non-idiopathic clubfoot in a tertiary centre of developing country. A total of 108 subjects with 85 having idiopathic (group I;125 feet) and 23 having non-idiopathic variety (group II;34 feet) were managed with Ponseti method and were followed for a mean duration of 38.33 (12–62) and 36.27 months (12–58) in group I and II respectively. The most common associations were meningomyelocele (MMC/spina bifida,5), arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC,4), developmental dysplasia of hip (DDH,3) and Down’s syndrome and amniotic band syndrome (2 each).ResultsPrimary correction was achieved in both the groups in 98% and 87% in group I and II respectively, while recurrences of at least one deformity was observed in 11 (9%) and 12 (40%) feet in group I and II respectively. Favourable outcomes were noticed in 22 (65%) feet in non-idiopathic group and 12 feet (35%) underwent extensive soft tissue release as compared to 3 feet (2.4%) in idiopathic variety.ConclusionDeformities improved significantly in non-idiopathic clubfeet with Ponseti methods although complete correction was not possible. Extensive surgical interventions were reduced in up to 35% feet in non-idiopathic variety and hence, it is recommended as primary treatment for all variety of clubfeet, irrespective of their etiology.     

A method for the early evaluation of the Ponseti (Iowa) technique for the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot

The Ponseti casting technique is reported to have a high success rate in the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot. Non-operative treatment of clubfoot provides a lower complication rate, less pain, and higher function as the patient ages than operative treatment. To demonstrate serial post-treatment change in clubfeet over time, three clubfoot rating systems were utilized in the current study. Patients compliant with the Ponseti technique and treated before the age of 7 months, had a 92% success rate at an early follow-up after casting was completed. It is not the purpose of this article to analyze the long-term clubfoot treatment result but to establish tools which can be used to judge initial success with the Ponseti technique. Complications are few and minor, limited to equipment used and cast technique.     

Tibial Torsion in Untreated Congenital Clubfoot

Current methods of measurement were reassessed by the study of tibial torsion in 1000 normal legs using the tropometer, the caliper and X-rays. No significant difference in the reproducibility of results was found and the simpler clinical methods appeared to be satisfactory for practical purposes. The spontaneous evolution of leg torsion in clubfoot was studied in forty-two neglected and previously untreated cases, who were seen for the first time after they had begun walking. Comparison with the torsion observed in the legs of healthy children of a corresponding age proved that untreated clubfoot is not associated with pathological torsion. The place of rotation osteotomy in the treatment of clubfoot is discussed.     

Tibial torsion in untreated congenital clubfoot.

Current methods of measurement were reassessed by the study of tibial torsion in 1000 normal legs using the tropometer, the caliper and X-rays. No significant difference in the reproducibility of results was found and the simpler clinical methods appeared to be satisfactory for practical purposes. The spontaneous evolution of leg torsion in clubfoot was studied in forty-two neglected and previously untreated cases, who were seen for the first time after they had begun walking. Comparison with the torsion observed in the legs of healthy children of a corresponding age proved that untreated clubfoot is not associated with pathological torsion. The place of rotation osteotomy in the treatment of clubfoot is discussed.     

External fixation in clubfoot treatment - a review of the literature

The treatment of neglected or relapsed clubfoot is still a challenge. Extensive open surgeries may lead to postoperative scarring and various complications.Gradual distraction using circular fixators for treatment of these cases was described by many researchers in the last decades. Different techniques were used with and without open surgeries. Recently the Taylor Spatial Frame was described for clubfoot correction using the principles of the Ponseti technique. Results of treatment using different techniques are described in this review. External fixation with soft tissue distraction even without open surgery is an effective treatment for neglected or relapsed clubfoot.     

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。     

Wound complications from idiopathic clubfoot surgery: a comparison of the modified Turco and the Cincinnati treatment methods

PURPOSE: Treatment protocols using the Turco and the Cincinnati incisions are widely used for the surgical correction of clubfoot deformity. However, it is unclear which surgical approach leads to fewer wound problems. We therefore sought to determine which treatment method led to a lower incidence of wound complications. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective chart review of 217 consecutive patients (308 feet) who underwent a primary posteromedial release for the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot under the age of 24 months via either the modified Turco or Cincinnati treatment methods was used to document the incidence of postoperative wound complications. The modified Turco protocol involved immediate postoperative casting in neutral, whereas the Cincinnati method involved staged casting with the foot initially in equinus, then to neutral with a cast change 7 days later. RESULTS: A significantly lower incidence of wound complications was seen in the Cincinnati treatment group when compared with the modified Turco treatment method (6.9% vs 19.6%, respectively, P < 0.003). When patients were stratified based on immediate versus staged postoperative casting methods, there was a significantly lower incidence of wound complications (P < 0.05) in feet in the Cincinnati treatment group versus the modified Turco treatment method; however, the statistical populations were markedly unequal. Among all feet treated with the Cincinnati method, patients who underwent a staged cast change had significantly fewer wound problems when compared with those who underwent immediate casting with the foot in neutral (5.1% vs 16.7%, respectively, P < 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: In the surgical correction of idiopathic clubfoot, the incidence of wound complications is significantly decreased with the use of the Cincinnati treatment method rather than the modified Turco treatment protocol. Whether this effect is a result of the incision or the postoperative casting protocol is unclear.     

Clubfoot analysis with three-dimensional computer modeling

Which way are the bones rotated in a clubfoot? This question has long been debated by clubfoot surgeons. Opinions have been based on observations from surgery, radiographs, and autopsies. These methods all have pitfalls and are subject to misinterpretation. We used three-dimensional computer modeling to analyze histologic sections of a newborn clubfoot and a newborn normal foot. Relative to the bimalleolar axis in the axial plane, the normal talus demonstrated 5 degrees of internal rotation of its body and 25 degrees internal rotation of its neck. The clubfoot talus showed 14 degrees of external rotation of its body and 45 degrees of internal rotation of its neck. The calcaneus was externally rotated 5 degrees in the normal foot and internally rotated 22 degrees in the clubfoot.     

The Ponseti technique for treatment of talipes equinovarus

Traditional treatment for clubfoot usually includes initial casting and an extensive posterior medial soft tissue release with biplanar pinning, followed by more casting. This treatment has significant risks, complications, and the potential for a poorer prognosis as the patients age, usually with stiff and scarred feet. In contradistinction, Ignacio Ponseti has been using his unique technique of clubfoot manipulation, casting, and Achilles tenotomy for more than 50 years with a high degree of success. Currently, there are many peer-reviewed and independently verified studies that replicate his success in treating clubfoot. This technique is easy to learn and is becoming the accepted treatment of idiopathic clubfoot all over the world.     

An Unusual Aberrant Muscle in Congenital Clubfoot: An Intraoperative Finding

Congenital clubfoot is a common congenital deformity, characterized by equinus of the hindfoot and adduction of the midfoot and forefoot, with varus through the subtalar joint complex. A cavus deformity will also be present. The etiology of this congenital deformity remains elusive. Muscle anomalies are not commonly found in patients with idiopathic clubfoot, and, when present, their significance is not clear. The presence of a flexor digitorum accessorius longus muscle and an accessory soleus muscle found at surgical correction of clubfoot deformity has been previously reported. Our case was a female child, aged 2 years, 3 months, who developed bilateral relapsed congenital clubfoot. She was found to have an unusual aberrant muscle in both legs. This was discovered accidentally during surgical correction of her deformity through posteromedial soft tissue release. This muscle might have contributed to the hindfoot varus and equinus in the clubfoot deformity, because the latter were completely corrected after release of the muscle from its insertion. Awareness of such a new anatomic variant, with the other anatomic variants found in clubfoot deformity, will not only improve our understanding of normal lower limb development, but could also lead to improved genetic counseling and diagnostic and treatment methods of such a common congenital deformity.     

Conservative treatment of clubfoot: the Functional Method and its long-term follow-up

Despite the presence of a considerable number of papers published in the international literature, talipes equinovarus keeps its secrets. Conservative methods of treatment are currently accepted as advantageous over surgery. Prediction of the future of a clubfoot after treatment is not possible, for this reason, a long-term follow-up is needful. A true Functional Method based solely on gentle manipulations has been used for more than thirty years. Its aim is to correct the deformity and to allow the child to walk without delay. The principle of this method is to distract joint contractures prior to progressive correction of the deformity. No selection is made regarding the severity of the deformity and its etiology. Family plays an important role in performing routine manipulations at home. Concerning this Functional Method, three main series have been published by our team, with excellent-good results accounting for up to 77%. We believe that our Functional Method of conservative treatment of clubfoot is an appropriate way for correction of the deformity and its stabilization.     

Management issues of congenital talipes equinovarus in the neonatal intensive care unit: A systematic review

BackgroundThe Ponseti method is the standard of care for managing idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot) in the outpatient setting, but there are no clinical guidelines for inpatient treatment. Children in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with clubfoot often delay treatment initiation due to medical reasons.MethodsWe systematically reviewed literature related to the treatment of clubfoot in the NICU, non-idiopathic clubfoot, and older infants, as well as barriers to care.ResultsIn a mixed NICU population of syndromic and idiopathic clubfoot, the Ponseti method has good functional outcomes with minimal interference with medical management. The Ponseti method has good functional outcomes with reduced need for extensive surgical procedures in non-idiopathic clubfoot and idiopathic clubfoot with delayed presentation (under one year of age).ConclusionsIt is possible to begin Ponseti treatment in the NICU without compromising medical management. It is not clear if this confers an advantage over waiting for outpatient casting.     

A collaborative public health approach to clubfoot intervention in 10 low-income and middle-income countries: 2-year outcomes and lessons learnt

Untreated clubfoot has been acknowledged as a public health problem in low-income countries. In 2007-2009, a 10-country initiative was implemented by a collaboration of nongovernmental organizations and Ministries of Health to establish and strengthen national programmes for management of clubfoot using the Ponseti technique. Independent evaluation used quantitative data on programme outcomes and qualitative data from service providers and users. Overall, 110 clubfoot clinics were established, 634 practitioners were trained and 7705 children were enrolled for treatment. The public health model of establishing services for clubfoot on a national level was found to be successful in the majority of countries included.     

Confirmation of Tenotomy Healing at 3 Weeks Using the Ponseti Protocol

Percutaneous Achilles tenotomy is an integral key element of the Ponseti method in clubfoot management. The duration of posttenotomy casting has been empirical. Evidence-based duration of healing in Achilles tendon is required to objectively determine the period of posttenotomy casting. This study aims to use clinical and ultrasonographic methods to evaluate the mean duration of Achilles tendon gap (ATG) closure and the weekly percentage of feet that achieved ATG closure after tenotomy. Prospectively, 37 feet of 25 patients <5 years old with idiopathic clubfoot were managed using Ponseti methods. The Achilles tendon was assessed clinically and ultrasonographically before and after tenotomy. The tendon stump gap was created at tenotomy, and posttenotomy assessments were done on a weekly basis until tendon stump gap closure was achieved, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The immediate posttenotomy ultrasonographic mean tendon gap area was 5 ± 2.8 mm. The mean duration of the tendon stump gap closure as determined clinically was 1.9 ± 0.8 weeks, whereas it was 2.6 ± 0.9 weeks as assessed ultrasonographically (p < .001). The significant difference between clinical and ultrasound methods of assessing the Achilles tendon gap closure appears to establish casting removal and ambulatory walking at 3 weeks after tenotomy for <5-year-old children with idiopathic clubfoot treated with the Ponseti method. We recommend that the duration of posttenotomy cast should be 3 weeks based on the ultrasonographic findings.