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Despite the widespread use of the Ponseti method for treatment of clubfeet, there continue to be a significant number of patients who present with a severe, stiff clubfoot as a result of extensive intra-articular soft tissue release or lack of access to care. In such patients, circular external fixators can be utilized for deformity correction with distraction across soft tissues, joints, and osteotomies. Ilizarov or hexapod circular fixators may be utilized according to surgeon preference. Indications for soft tissue release and osteotomies to aid in correction of clubfoot deformity with Ilizarov and hexapod fixators are not standardized and are guided by patient age, joint congruity, soft tissue suppleness, and osseous deformity. Correction time varies according to clubfoot deformity severity. Following deformity correction, external fixators are left in place for several weeks to stabilize the soft tissues and allow for osteotomy healing. Complications range from relatively minor pin tract infections that resolve with oral antibiotics to tarsal tunnel syndrome, osteomyelitis, or disabling arthritis requiring revision procedures. At Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, we prefer to correct severe residual clubfoot deformity with a hexapod external fixator. Acute correction and gradual correction via distraction are considered for each segmental deformity and utilized to efficiently correct deformity while minimizing soft tissue trauma. The purpose of this article is to summarize the relevant literature related to circular external fixator treatment of recurrent clubfoot deformity and outline our approach to the segmental deformities of the foot and ankle in this patient population.

Background: Percutaneous Achilles tenotomy (PAT) is an important component of the Ponseti method and is performed in 85% to 90% of patients. However, there is a lack of objective data assessing early radiographic changes in children undergoing PAT. Methods: Forty-nine patients with idiopathic clubfoot treated by Ponseti casting were prospectively enrolled between October 2017 and October 2018. Preoperative and postoperative ankle dorsiflexion (pre-ADFmax, post-ADFmax) and lateral talocalcaneal angle (pre-LTCAmax, post-LTCAmax) values with the ankle in maximal dorsiflexion as well as postoperative LTCA values with the ankle in the neutral position (post-LTCAneutral) were measured. The relationship between the preoperative and postoperative ADF and LTCA values was studied using Pearson or Spearman correlation coefficients. Forty-nine patients (72 feet) were included; the mean age at initial treatment was 32.2 ± 24.1 days. Results: Post-LTCAmax improved significantly from 18.6 ± 9.2 degrees to 25.1 ± 10.5 degrees ( P < .0001). Pre-ADF and pre-LTCAmax showed a positive correlation in both the less than 28-day group ( r = 0.42; P = .015) and the Dimeglio III group ( r = 0.29; P = .035). However, post-ADF and post-LTCAmax showed a positive correlation in the Dimeglio III group ( r = 0.30; P = .028). The degree of improvement in post-LCTAmax in the Dimeglio III group was similar to that in the Dimeglio IV group ( P = .28). Conclusion: The LTCA increased immediately after PAT in clubfoot, although the improvement seemed to be unrelated to the severity of the disease. PAT led to an increase in both ADF and the LTCA, and it contributed to the improvements in subtalar joint motion and alignment. Level of Evidence: Level III, comparative study.

Introduction: Idiopathic clubfoot or congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) is managed by the Ponseti method worldwide; however, the recurrence of the deformity is a challenging problem. The purpose was to review the factors associated with early recurrence of CTEV post the Ponseti method. Materials and Methods: During 2011-2016, 34 infants with 52 CTEV, who underwent the Ponseti method and a minimum follow-up period of six months, were reviewed. Twenty-two infants (65%) were male, and 18 infants (53%) had bilateral CTEV. Recurrence of CTEV was defined as a reappearance of at least one of the four components of the deformity. The association between recurrence and factors, including age, gender, bilaterality, family geography, type of principal caregiver, severity at presentation, centre where the Ponseti method was initiated, compliance to foot abduction brace (FAB), practice of stretching exercise, type of FAB, and complications of casting, were evaluated using univariate logistic regression analysis. Results: The median age at initiation of the treatment was 3.4 (IQR; 2.1-12.6) weeks. A median of six (range; 3-12) casts were required. Tenotomy was performed in 32/34 (94%) of cases. Recurrence occurred in 14/52 feet (27%) at an average follow-up period of 2.3±1.1 years. Non-compliance to FAB protocol began at an average age of 11.2±6.5 months, and significantly increased the risk of recurrence during the weaning phase [OR (95%CI)=8.4 (1.2-92.4), p=0.03]. Other factors were not associated with the recurrence. Conclusion: Non-compliance to FAB occurred early during the treatment and related to a risk of recurrence of CTEV. Physicians should encourage the parents and/or guardians to follow the protocol to decrease the risk of recurrence.

BACKGROUND Complex clubfoot is a term used to describe those feet that present after treatment with a short first metatarsal, severe plantar flexion of all metatarsals, rigid equinus, and deep folds through the sole of the foot and above the heel. Ponseti has described a modification of his original technique for the treatment of the deformity. Few series have reported the treatment outcomes of this group of patients. The purpose of this study is to analyze mid-term results and complications of a large multicenter cohort. METHODS Patients with complex clubfoot treated at 6 tertiary-care institutions with a minimum of 1-year follow-up were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic data, previous treatment, number of casts, Achilles tenotomy, recurrences, complications, and additional procedures were documented. The patients were clinically evaluated at the time of presentation, after treatment, and at the last follow-up according to the Pirani score. All variables had a nonparametric distribution and are thus described as median (interquartile range (IQR), minimum-maximum). A comparison between the variables was performed using a Mann-Whitney U test, the change within each group was performed with a Wilcoxon-designated range test. A P-value

This study reviewed the efficacy of a modified Ponseti method (MP) for treating rigid clubfeet insufficiently corrected by the classic Ponseti method. Briefly, the MP consisted of 3 procedures. First, Achilles tenotomy, abductor hallucis tenotomy, and plantar fasciotomy were conducted through 3 small incisions. Second, the talocalcaneal and talonavicular joints were manually reduced. Third, plaster immobilization was introduced to maintain the initial correction. Dimeglio scores, radiographs, and pain evaluations were used to analyze outcomes. All 38 patients with 56 clubfeet enrolled in the present study achieved initial correction after the MP, followed by a mean of 3.68 ± 0.77 (range 3 to 5) cast immobilizations, which were changed each week. The average duration of treatment was 30.63 ± 6.45 days (range 23 to 47), and 6 (10.71%) clubfeet exhibited cast-related pressure injury. After a mean follow-up period of 19.71 ± 4.83 months (range 12.47 to 31.33), no child presented foot pain, and except for 1 patient with relapse, all patients received correction, with Dimeglio scores of 0.55 ± 1.06 points (range 0 to 7). The recurrence rate was 1.79% (1 of 56) at the first year. The anteroposterior talocalcaneal angle was 34.83° ± 10.65°, and the lateral talocalcaneal angle was 31.38° ± 9.86° at the last follow-up period, and both were significantly improved compared with the corresponding preoperative angles (p < .001). The anteroposterior talus-first metatarsal angle was 12.33° ± 10.04°, and the lateral calcaneal tibial angle was 74.15° ± 14.12°, which were significantly decreased compared with the preoperative values (p < .001). In conclusion, the present short-term evaluation of this minimally invasive soft-tissue release method showed promising results for treating rigid clubfoot that was not responsive to the traditional Ponseti method.

Background Several studies have investigated motor and cognitive skills in infants as well as gross motor abilities in schoolchildren treated for congenital idiopathic clubfoot, mostly indicating specific impairments in those children. However, until now, little is known about the motor and cognitive abilities of preschool children treated for idiopathic clubfoot. Thus, it was the aim of this study to examine gross motor, fine motor and cognitive skills of 3-year-old-children treated for idiopathic clubfoot. Method We tested gross motor, fine motor and cognitive functioning of 10 children treated for idiopathic clubfoot and 10 typically developing children at the age of 40 months (SD = 1) with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development. Results The children treated for idiopathic clubfoot showed a slight delay in gross motor development. In particular, they demonstrated difficulties in tiptoeing, walking upstairs and walking downstairs. Moreover, we found some slight deficits in cognitive development, particularly in visual-spatial memory. Discussion Children treated for idiopathic clubfoot appear to have an increased risk of gross motor and spatial cognitive deficits. Orthopedic pediatrics should incorporate measures of gross motor functioning, for example tiptoeing, in their orthopedic setting. Moreover, future studies are needed to clarify whether the observed deficits persist through childhood. If so, some kind of a motor training for children with idiopathic clubfoot might be required.

Purpose A mild delay in gross motor milestones and walking age has been reported in infants with clubfoot. The influence of different treatments on motor development has been poorly investigated. Some parents and physical therapists express concern that the Ponseti method (PM) and its constraints (abduction brace, casts) would affect development more than the French physical therapy method (FM) due to greater immobilization and lesser stimulation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate achievement of three motor milestones (pull-to-standing, cruising and independent walking) in two groups of clubfoot patients treated at two experienced institutes respectively with the PM and FM. Methods In all, 52 consecutive infants (full-term at birth, mean age at beginning of treatment 24.3 days (sd 10), mean Dimeglio score 12 (sd 3.4)) were prospectively enrolled (26 patients per centre) and followed up to walking age recording milestones. Results The two groups were not different in terms of age at the beginning of treatment (p = 0.067) and rate of tenotomy. Age at tenotomy was significantly lower in the PM group (p = 0.000). Severity (p = 0.004) and number of bilateral cases (p = 0.012) were higher in the PM group. A non-significant difference was found for age of achievement of pull-to-standing (p = 0.109), cruising (p = 0.253) and independent ambulation (p = 0.349) between the two groups. Overall, milestones were achieved approximately two months later than normal population. Sex, severity, laterality and need of tenotomy were not found to significantly influence milestones. Conclusion Our results confirmed that infants with clubfoot are expected to have a minimum delay in motor development. Infants treated with the PM and those treated with the FM did not show significant differences in gross motor milestones achievement at walking age. Level of Evidence Level II – Prospective comparative therapeutic studies

Summary. One of the most common malformation of the musculoskeletal system in children is congenital clubfoot, which occurs from 2 to 5 cases per 1000 newborns. Treatment of idiopathic clubfoot by the Ponseti method is now standard, and most feet can achieve satisfactory initial correction using this technique. But the high relapse rate (from 20 to 40%) and the existing postoperative complications necessitate the search for approaches to reduce them. One of such approaches is the application of the I.Ponseti technique at the stages of preoperative preparation. The aim of our work is to reduce the incidence of complications in the surgical treatment of congenital clubfoot by applying the I.Ponseti technique. Materials and methods. An analysis was made of the treatment of 62 children (74 feet) with idiopathic congenital clubfoot, who were inpatient and outpatient treatment at the NSH «Ohmatdet» from september 2015 to august 2018. Of these, 39 were patients with recurrence of congenital clubfoot after the initial treatment according to method I.Ponseti and 23 patients with relapsed deformity after initial surgical treatment. Of these, 35 boys and 27 girls. All patients were separated into two groups. Group I – 27 patients (32 feet) who did not use casting according to the I.Ponseti technique before surgical treatment. Group II – 35 patients (42 feet) who underwent staging casting according to I.Ponseti technique at the stages of preoperative planning. The average age of the patients is 4 ± 0.85 years. Result. Use of the I.Ponseti technique at the stages of preoperative preparation in the treatment of congenital clubfoot can significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative complications. The result of which is the possibility of early rehabilitation of patients and prevention of recurrence of deformity.

Children having both typical developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and clubfoot are rare, and early treatments of both conditions are recommended. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the Ponseti method of clubfoot treatment on hips with DDH. After institutional review board approval, we identified children treated by the Ponseti and Pavlik methods between 2003 and 2016. During the Ponseti method treatment, the duration of manipulations, number of casts, tenotomies performed, and days in clubfoot orthosis were recorded. During DDH treatment, we registered duration for Pavlik and hip brace usage. Hips had dynamic sonography and radiographic evaluations. The cases were grouped according to the combination of DDH and clubfoot treatments: (a) concurrent, (b) sequential, and (c) hip observation. Seven cases of DDH and clubfoot were identified. The average number of Ponseti casts was 5.8 (range: 4-8 casts). The average number of days following the post-Achilles-tenotomy casting to the end of clubfoot bracing was 870 days (range: 90-1605 days). Eleven (four bilateral cases and three unilateral) clubfeet were corrected initially by the Ponseti method. The average number of days for Pavlik harness treatment was 74 (range: 10-126 days). Additionally, a hip orthosis was utilized in three children for an average of 131 days. At follow-up, all children had a high femoral neck-shaft angle averaging 152° (range: 144°-164°). One child (case 5) developed avascular necrosis of the femoral head, Kalamchi type I. Children with typical and nonsyndromic DDH and clubfoot treated by Pavlik harness and Ponseti methods are associated with abnormal hip development (coxa valga).

Introduction. Ponseti method is a widespread treatment for clubfoot in children with arthrogryposis. Closed subcutaneous achillotomy in these patients could not completely rectify the equinus deformity due to tissue rigidity which often leads to reconsideration of the tenotomy principles. Aim. This study aimed to formulate the anticipating criteria to assess the effectiveness of achillotomy in order to develop a different achillotomy approach for children with arthrogryposis. Materials and methods. This study retrospectively analyzed closed subcutaneous achillotomy in 28 patients (56 feet) with arthrogryposis. The mean age of the patients was 5.4 months (range 2–8 months). The children were subdivided into two groups according to the residual equinus deformity after the completion of Ponseti serial casting. All patients were physically and radiographically examined. Results and discussion. The first group included 12 patients (24 feet), which achieved foot neutral position or dorsiflexion ≥5° after achillotomy. The second group consisted of 16 patients (32 feet) with residual equinus after achillotomy who required surgery. X-ray images showed that the patients in the second group had significantly wider tibiocalcaneal angle and smaller talocalcaneal angle in lateral view (р < 0.01). The correction values of the equinus deformity after achillotomy in the children with arthrogryposis were greatly limited: 27° (20°–30°) and 19° (10°–30°) in the first and second groups, respectively. Conclusion. Closed subcutaneous achillotomy for effective equinus elimination during clubfoot treatment by Ponseti method should be performed only after complete correction at the level of tarsal joints. X-ray examination of the feet is recommended for the children with arthrogryposis in order to evaluate the talocalcaneal divergence and heel position more comprehensively. Furthermore, the values of tibiocalcaneal and talocalcaneal angles in lateral view prior to achillotomy are essential prognostic factors of its effectiveness. Moreover, the severity of equinus contracture should be considered prior to achillotomy. Achilles tenotomy is inappropriate if equinus deformity exceeds 30°. In such cases, open surgery should be considered.

After successful primary correction of the deformity in idiopathic clubfoot with the Ponseti method, recurrence has been reported to affect up to 40% of children. So far, it has been difficult to predict which feet are at risk of recurrence, despite numerous studies investigating various potential risk factors. The foot abduction brace (FAB) has been the standard of care in preventing recurrence but, even with excellent compliance, recurrences still occur. Increasingly, evidence points to a congenital neuromuscular imbalance constituting the deforming forces present in clubfoot. Poor evertor muscle activity has been cited specifically as a potential risk factor for recurrence. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether poor evertor muscle activity on clinical examination can predict recurrence in idiopathic clubfoot at 5-year follow-up.Data were collected prospectively on patients treated at our tertiary physiotherapy-led Ponseti service between 2010 and 2015. Hospital ethical approval was obtained. Sex, age, laterality, Pirani score, number of casts, brace compliance, and evertor activity were recorded. Evertor muscle activity was scored in a semiquantitative repeatable manner: 0, 0.5, or 1 as previously described. Recurrence was defined as deterioration of any of the 4 components of the deformity following a previously complete correction.In total, 104 patients (172 feet) were included in the study, 76 patients had good evertor activity, and 28 demonstrated poor evertor activity. The mean follow up was 62 months (range, 41 to 71 mo); 18.3% of the patients (19/104) had recurrence treated with repeat casting; 13.5% (14/104) of the patients required additional surgery following recasting. Recurrence was highly associated with poor evertor activity (P0.01).Results at 5 years confirm that a semiquantitative evertor muscle activity assessment can predict recurrence and should be added to the routine clinical assessment in order to assist with individualizing patient's treatment strategies.Level II.

Aims The Ponseti method is the benchmark treatment for the correction of clubfoot. The primary rate of correction is very high, but outcome further down the treatment pathway is less predictable. Several methods of assessing severity at presentation have been reported. Classification later in the course of treatment is more challenging. This systematic review considers the outcome of the Ponseti method in terms of relapse and determines how clubfoot is assessed at presentation, correction, and relapse. Patients and Methods A prospectively registered systematic review was carried out according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies that reported idiopathic clubfoot treated by the Ponseti method between 1 January 2012 and 31 May 2017 were included. The data extracted included demographics, Ponseti methodology, assessment methods, and rates of relapse and surgery. Results A total of 84 studies were included (7335 patients, 10 535 clubfeet). The relapse rate varied between 1.9% and 45%. The rates of relapse and major surgery (1.4% to 53.3%) and minor surgery (0.6% to 48.8%) both increased with follow-up time. There was high variability in the assessment methods used across timepoints; only 57% of the studies defined relapse. Pirani scoring was the method most often used. Conclusion Recurrence and further surgical intervention in idiopathic clubfoot increases with the duration of follow-up. The corrected and the relapsed foot are poorly defined, which contributes to variability in outcome. The results suggest that a consensus for a definition of relapse is needed. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:639–645.

Purpose The Ponseti method is widely used in clubfoot treatment. Long-term follow-up shows high patient satisfaction and excellent functional outcomes. Clubfoot tendency to relapse is a problem yet to solve. Given the importance of bracing in relapse prevention, we ought to discuss current knowledge and controversies about bracing. Methods We describe types of braces used, with its advantages and disadvantages, suggesting bracing schedules and duration. We identify bracing problems and pinpoint strategies to promote adherence to bracing. Results When treating a clubfoot by the Ponseti method, the corrected foot should be held in an abducted and dorsiflexed position, in a foot abduction brace (FAB), with two shoes connected by a bar. The brace is applied after the clubfoot has been completely corrected by manipulation, serial casting and possibly Achilles tenotomy. Bracing is recommended until four to five years of age and needs to be fitted to the individual patient, based on age, associated relapse rate and timing when correction was finished. Parental non-adherence to FAB use can affect 34% to 61% of children and results in five- to 17-fold higher odds of relapse. In patients who have recurrent adherence problems, a unilateral lower leg custom-made orthosis can be considered as a salvage option. Healthcare providers must communicate with patients regarding brace wearing, set proper expectations and ensure accurate use. Conclusion Bracing is essential for preventing clubfoot relapse. Daily duration and length of bracing required to prevent recurrence is still unknown. Prospective randomized clinical trials may bring important data that will influence clinicians’ and families’ choices regarding bracing. Level of Evidence V

Purpose Treatment of idiopathic clubfoot (IC) has improved since the introduction of the Ponseti method. However, relapses are still common and primarily related to non-adherence to the brace regime. Our hypothesis was that IC might be more than just a structural deformity. Based on three studies, the aim of this paper was to provide an overview of findings regarding additional challenges within IC. Methods In total, 153 children with IC and 137 control children participated in the studies. The first study assessed gross motor skills in six motor tasks using the Clubfoot Assessment Protocol. The second and third studies surveyed neurodevelopmental difficulties (NDDs) using the Five to Fifteen (FTF) questionnaire and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using the EuroQol-5D youth. Results A high percentage of gross motor deviations were found in children with IC compared with controls, and those correlated poorly with clubfoot severity and foot movement. Children with IC had a higher prevalence of NDDs on the FTF compared with the control group, including the domains: motor skills, perception and language. One-third of children with IC were defined as at risk of developmental disorders. In this subgroup, parents were less satisfied with the outcome of clubfoot treatment and the children reported worse HRQoL than those without NDDs. Conclusion The findings suggest additional challenges in children with IC, such as NDDs, apparently affecting both clubfoot treatment outcome and HRQoL. Thus, awareness of these challenges could be vital to further optimize treatment and support, for example, with regards to brace adherence. Level of Evidence II - Prognostic study

Background: Congenital club foot is a complex deformity of foot .It is a collection of different abnormalities, with different etiologies. Consequently, Severity varies with difficulties in evaluating treatment strategies with outcome results. The treatment of congenital club foot remains controversial. Usually, the orthopedist's goal is to obtain anatomically and functionally normal feet in all patients. Objective: To asses short term follow up result of conservatively treated club feet in relation to the age of initial casting by Ponseti technique. Methods :A cross sectional observational study with some comparative content done in Al-kindy teaching hospital .A total of 36 patients (44 clubfeet) were treated by Ponseti method during the period of October 2014 to April 2017and were studied prospectively (mean follow up period 6 months, minimum follow-up period of 3 months) . Twenty six patients were male, thus male to female ratio is 2.6 : 1. It involved only patients less than two months. The patients were divided in to two groups: Group (A) included patients less than 4 weeks, while Group (B) between 4-8 weeks of age at the initiation of the treatment. gender, bilateralism, severity of the initial clubfoot deformity measured by Pirani Severity Score System, total numbers of Ponseti casts before the tenotomy, details of tenotomy, compliance with brace were examined. Passive range of movements and look of club foot are evaluated with mean six months follow-up. Results: We followed the functional Pirani Severity Scoring System and got good to excellent results in 32 patients 88.9 % (37 clubfeet – 84.1%) at mean 6 months of follow up. Ten patients 27.8 % (12 clubfeet – 27.3%) had relapse at varying age; out of which 6 patients 60% (8clubfeet 66.7%) were corrected by Ponseti casting method, while 4 patients 40% (4 clubfeet 33.3%) were resistant to Ponseti method. Poor compliance with the Denis Browne splint and poor cast technique was thought to be the main cause of failure in these patients. Conclusion: Good understanding the main pathology of club foot, and the ideal method of conservative treatment for correction of the deformities systematically before starting the treatment. In all types of club foot, we start conservative treatment, either as a definite treatment or to make surgical treatment easier for the surgeon and the patient. So Starting the treatment from the first day of life give excellent results and it will be decreased with delay.

Introduction: Congenital Talipes Equinovarus is one of the most common congenital deformities of foot and ankle. Ponseti method of serial manipulation and once weekly casting has claimed a success rate of 95 %. However, modification of the Ponseti method in terms of duration with twice weekly casting can shorten the time immobilized in plaster with increased parents compliance. Materials and Methods: A randomized comparative study was carried out for total 64 patients (100 clubfoot) attending the Outpatient department of Orthopaedics, Silchar Medical College and Hospital from 1st June, 2017 to 31st May, 2018. 32 patients each in Standard Ponseti group and Accelerated Ponseti group were allotted according to computer generated randomisation plan. The method of manipulation was similar in both the groups with once weekly casting in Standard Ponseti group and twice weekly casting in Accelerated Ponseti group. The initial and final Pirani scores, number of casts required for correction, treatment time in plaster, rate of tenotomy and relapse of deformity in the Standard and Accelerated Ponseti groups were recorded and compared using paired and unpaired t-test methods as required. Results: The two groups did not differ with respect to their initial and final Pirani scores. The mean number of casts required was 5.92 + 1.09 in Standard Ponseti group, and 6.09 + 1.11 in Accelerated Ponseti group (p-value = 0.4203). However, there was significant difference in the treatment time in plaster with mean treatment time of 41.42+7.62 days(range -28 to56 days) in Standard Ponseti group and 21.13 +3.94days(range-14 to 31 days) in Accelerated Ponseti group with p-value < 0.05. 41 out of 48 feet in Standard Ponseti group and 46 out of 52 feet in Accelerated Ponseti group required percutaneous tenotomy. Relapse of equinus and adduction deformity was seen in 3 feet each in Standard and Accelerated Ponseti groups on follow up.Conclusion: Accelerated Ponseti method of twice weekly casting has similar results as Standard Ponseti method with the advantage of earlier correction of the deformity and better parents compliance.

Aims and objectives: Idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus is a complex deformity that is difficult to correct. The treatment of clubfoot is controversial and continues to be one of the biggest challenges in paediatric orthopaedics. Most orthopedists agree that the initial treatment should be non-surgical and should be started soon after birth.Methodology: 30 patients underwent the Ponseti method at the Department of Orthopaedics, and patients were followed up regularly at monthly intervals. The severity of foot deformities were graded as per Pirani’s scoring system.Results: Good results were obtained in 28 patients. 2 Patients developed recurrence of the deformity due to non-compliance of the use of Orthotics.Conclusion: The Ponseti method is a safe and cost effective treatment for congenital idiopathic clubfoot and radically decreases the need for extensive corrective surgery. Non-compliance with orthotics has been widely reported to be the main factor causing failure of the technique.

Background: CTEV (Clubfoot) is the most common congenital orthopaedic condition of lower limb and being treated worldwide by the Ponseti method. The treatment is started as soon as possible after birth. Still many children come to clinics at relatively higher age. The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness in terms of outcome of Ponseti method of clubfoot management in infants and children of more than 1 year of age (1 year to 2 years). Methods: It is a prospective, non-randomised follow-up study conducted on outpatient basis at Department of orthopaedics, Bokaro General Hospital during the period of March 2016- September 2017. The method used for the management was serial manipulation and long leg plaster of Paris casting after getting the Pirani score at every visit. Results: A total of 40 children (20 infants and 20 children more than 1 year) with idiopathic clubfoot were selected and treated with Ponseti method. Patients from both the groups showed a significant decrease in the mean Pirani score. Conclusion: Ponseti method in management of clubfoot in older children (1-2 years) gives a good result which is comparable with infants.

Background/Purpose: In last century, two distinctive methods of manipulation and casting were developed, Kite method and Ponseti method. The purpose of this study is to compare the outcomes of parallel series between two methods in one institution. Methods: From 2003 to 2008, two pediatric orthopedic services in one institution treated 57 patients with 88 idiopathic clubfeet. One service continued using Kite casting method consisted of 58 feet, and other service employed Ponseti casting method consisted of 30 feet. There was a minimum of 4 years follow-up. Results: Both groups had similar Dimeglio severity scores before treatment. Initial correction was achieved in 40 feet (69%) in the Kite group compared with 27 feet (90%) in the Ponseti group, while 19 feet (63.3%) had percutaneous Achilles tenotomy. The Ponseti method was found to have a significantly higher correction rate (p = 0.028). After a mean follow-up of 72 months, there were 29 relapses (50%) in the Kite group and 8 relapses (26.7%) in the Ponseti group with significant difference (p = 0.036). At the latest follow-up, the outcome measures were 24 feet (41.4%) good, 18 feet (31%) fair and 16 (27.6%) poor in the Kite group and 25 feet (83.3%) good, 3 feet (10%) fair and 2 feet (6.7%) poor in the Ponseti group with significant difference between two groups (p

BACKGROUND Clubfoot also called as congenital tailpipes equinovarus is a complex ankle and foot deformity characterized by forefoot adduction and supination, midfoot cavus and hindfoot varus and equinus. It is estimated that more than 100,000 babies are born each year worldwide with clubfoot, and 80% are seen in developing nations. Different scoring systems are used for grading the severity of deformity or monitoring the natural history of clubfoot. The Pirani scoring system is now routinely used in most clubfoot clinics, including Cure Ethiopia, Children's Hospital. METHODS A facility based retrospective study was conducted on 278 idiopathic club feet successfully treated by the Ponseti method and scored by Pirani system between September 2013/14 to September 2017/2018. Age at presentation, number of casts required, need for percutaneous Achilles tenotomy, casting effects were recorded. RESULTS A total of 287 clinical folders of children were retrieved (424 feet). The mean (±SD) number of casts required for correction of the deformity was 5.54 ± 1.63. The number of cast required for correction is significantly, and positively correlated with initial severity of Pirani score (r = 0.62 for right foot; r = 0.675 for left foot). There is a significant difference on the overall initial Pirani score between tenotomy and non- tenotomy group (P value < 0.001). CONCLUSION The study revealed that severity of initial Pirani score can be used to estimate the number of Ponseti cast required for correction of clubfoot deformity and the need for tenotomy. Besides, the number of Ponseti cast required may not be affected by age of a child at the commencement of treatment.

Purpose The Ponseti method is a well-established approach to treating clubfoot. Potentially, both the underlying pathology and adherence to post-correction bracing can affect lower limb function and age of independent standing and walking. This cohort study investigates the age at which infants with idiopathic clubfoot treated using the Ponseti method achieved three selected developmental milestones and whether or not this correlated with treatment compliance. Methods A prospectively collected database from four centres was visited. Inclusion criteria were patients with idiopathic clubfoot with no comorbidities or prior treatment. Age at attainment of independent standing, walking, nocturnal continence was compared across three groups: I) congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) children compliant with treatment; II) CTEV children non-compliant with treatment; and III) typically-developed siblings. Minimum follow-up was five years. Results In all, 130 patients (198 feet) fitted the inclusion criteria: 43:87 (F:M). Standing was achieved by a mean 12.0 months in group I (sd 2.50); 12.0 months (sd 2.0) in II and ten months (sd 3.0) in III. Walking was achieved by a mean 15 months (sd 4.0) in group I, 14 months (sd 1.75) in II and 12 months (sd 3) in III, respectively. Both the compliant and non-compliant CTEV children were significantly slower at achieving standing and walking compared to sibling controls (p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference between age of nocturnal continence between the three groups. Conclusion Infants with idiopathic clubfoot treated according to the Ponseti method achieve independent standing and walking approximately two months later than their typically-developed siblings. The delay is not related to the use of the foot abduction brace. Level of evidence III

BACKGROUND Despite the high rate of initial success using the Ponseti method to manage idiopathic clubfoot deformity, relapse continues to be a problem. We surveyed the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America (POSNA) members about their experience with relapsed deformity following the initial correction of clubfeet. METHODS We created a survey to focus on the management of clubfeet after initial correction of deformity. The survey included questions on postcorrective bracing, clinical findings used to identify relapse, the observed frequency of relapsed deformity, and how relapses are managed. The questionnaire was approved by the POSNA Evidence Based Committee and was sent electronically to all POSNA members. RESULTS We received responses from 321 members (26%). Of those, 94% were fellowship trained in pediatric orthopaedics. The Ponseti method was used by 98% of respondents. The Mitchell-Ponseti orthosis was most commonly used (51%), followed by the Denis-Browne brace (25%). The duration of bracing used varied among members with 23% recommending only 2 years, 33% recommending 3 years, and 34% recommending 4 years. A tight heel cord was felt to be the first sign of relapse by 59% of respondents, and dynamic supination by 30%. The rate of relapse was observed to be

Purpose To point out the need to take into account the dysplastic nature of tarsal bones when treating idiopathic clubfoot (CF). Methods Review the published evidence on the developmental abnormalities of tarsal bones in idiopathic CF. Results The literature review provides abundant proof of the existence of delayed appearance and slower development of ossification centres of tarsal bones in idiopathic clubfoot. Conclusion Gentle manipulations and casting are the cornerstone of the Ponseti method. The biological response of all foot elements is critical for a successful outcome. Delayed ossification and abnormal development of tarsal bones in idiopathic CF may affect the results. Development of a personalized tailored bracing protocol based on severity assessment and response to casting treatment will improve results and quality of care in CF management. Level of Evidence V

Purpose Diméglio (DimS) and Pirani (PirS) scores are the most commonly used scoring systems for evaluation of clubfoot, with many centres performing both. Interobserver reliability of their global score has been rated high in a few studies, but agreement of their subcomponents has been poorly investigated. The aim of the study was to assess interrater reliability of global scores and of items in a clinical setting and to analyse overlapping features of the two scores. Methods Fifty-six consecutive idiopathic clubfeet undergoing correction using the Ponseti method were independently evaluated at each casting session by two trained paediatric orthopaedic surgeons using both scores. Interobserver reliability of collected data was analysed; a kappa coefficient > 0.60 was considered adequate. Results For DimS and PirS, the Pearson correlation coefficients were 0.87 and 0.91 (p < .0001) respectively, and kappa coefficients were 0.23 and 0.31. Among subcomponents, kappa values were rated > 0.60 only for equinus and curvature of lateral border in PirS; muscular abnormality in DimS was rated 0.74 but a high prevalence index (0.94) indicated influence of scarce prevalence of this feature. All other items showed k < 0.60 and were considered to be improved. For overlapping features: posterior and medial crease showed similar agreement in the two systems, items describing equinus and midfoot adduction were much more reliable in PirS than in DimS. Conclusions In a clinical setting, despite a high correlation of evaluations for total scores, the interobserver agreement of DimS and PirS was not adequate and only a few items were substantially reliable. Simultaneous use of two scores seemed redundant and some overlapping features showed different reliability according to criterion or scale used. Future scoring systems should improve these limitations. Level of Evidence Level I – Diagnostic studies

Introduction. Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), also called clubfoot, is one of the most common orthopedic congenital anomalies. However, there is no formal study of the condition here in the Philippines, and data is sparse regarding the epidemiology, treatment, and outcomes in similar third-world countries. Methods. Retrospective review of data of clubfoot patients seen at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Clubfoot Clinic from 2006 up to the present. Results. Records from 75 patients treated at the PGH Clubfoot Clinic from 2010-2016 were reviewed. Idiopathic clubfoot comprised 76% of the patients, while syndromic clubfoot comprised 24%. A good outcome of the Ponseti method was seen in 82% and 88% of the idiopathic and syndromic clubfoot patients, respectively. Idiopathic clubfoot cases that had good outcomes required an average of 11.84 casts to tenotomy or bracing, which was not statistically significant compared to 9.55 average sessions for syndromic clubfoot (p=0.21). The initial Pirani scores for both cases were not significantly different (p=0.95). Idiopathic cases with poor outcomes needed less casting sessions (4.45) because the decision to operate was made early. Age was not found to significantly affect the outcome of treatment for idiopathic clubfoot (p=0.20) and syndromic clubfoot (p=0.64). Conclusion. Ponseti casting was found to be effective in treating both idiopathic and syndromic clubfoot patients. The number of sessions did not differ significantly between the two.

Purpose: Ponseti casting has universally been accepted as the gold standard for treatment of idiopathic clubfoot. Conversely, primary treatment for non-idiopathic clubfoot has not been established. The purpose of this study is to compare treatment outcomes following primary soft tissue release (STR) and Ponseti casting of non-idiopathic clubfoot.Methods: An IRB-approved retrospective study of patients treated for non-idiopathic clubfoot between 2005 and 2020 was conducted. Patients were included if they began treatment before the age of 2 and had at least 1 year of follow up. Patients were placed into either the STR group or Ponseti group and variables of interest were documented including reoccurrence of deformity, number of surgeries performed, type of surgeries performed, anesthesia time, and surgery time. Data was analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables.Results: A total of 33 children with 57 neuromuscular/syndromic clubfoot were identified of which 9 (15 feet) were treated with STR and 24 (42 feet) were treated with Ponseti casting. Average anesthesia and surgery time were found to be 291 and 179 min, respectively, for the STR group, and 113 and 67 min for the Ponseti group. The difference in operating time was determined to be significant (p = 0.02, p = 0.01). Patients treated with STR were found to have significantly more surgeries performed over the course of treatment than those treated with Ponseti casting (p = 0.001) with an average of 4.2 surgeries in the STR group and 1.5 surgeries in the Ponseti group. Extracapsular procedures were performed in 100% of the STR group and 97.6% of the Ponseti group (p = 0.55). Intracapsular procedures were performed in 100% of the STR group and 50% of the Ponseti group (p = 0.001).Conclusion: The Ponseti method should serve as the primary approach in the initial treatment of non-idiopathic clubfoot as it can reduce the risk of future invasive intracapsular surgery and shorten anesthesia and surgery times when surgical treatment is necessary.Level of Evidence: Level III retrospective case control study.

Purpose An Achilles tenotomy is routinely required to correct the equinus deformity in Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) patients as part of the gold standard treatment using the Ponseti method. This procedure can be performed in clinic under local anaesthetic or in theatre under general anaesthetic. The COVID-19 pandemic reduced theatre capacity and caused a delay to CTEV patients’ treatment. A new standard operating procedure that allowed the tenotomies to be performed under local anaesthetic in the clinic was introduced. This study was looking into the safety, feasibility and parents’ perspective of this procedure. Methods The study was prospectively registered as a service improvement project and followed the SQUIRE guidelines (Ogrinc et al. in BMJ Qual Saf 25:986–992, 2016). All consecutive patients requiring a tenotomy were included. Data was collected prospectively including demographics, Pirani score and a carers’ satisfaction questionnaire. Results Twenty five patients (36 tenotomies) were included in the study. The median age was 9 weeks. All patients achieved ankle dorsiflexion of greater than 15° post-op. None of the patients nor their parents contracted the COVID 19 virus. All parents reported a positive experience and 99% felt less anxious about having the tenotomy done in clinic rather than theatre. Conclusions The new service offering clinic tenotomies was found to be safe and clinically successful. This study is the first to show parents preference and excellent satisfaction with a tenotomy performed under local anaesthetic. The service has improved the allocation of resources and due to its success, will continue beyond the pandemic. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00264-021-05119-w.

Objective This study aimed to determine the effects of the number of total siblings, younger siblings, and complex clubfoot deformity on the brace compliance and recurrence in the management of children with clubfoot deformity using the Ponseti technique. Methods The data from 91 children, including 22 girls and 69 boys (total 130 idiopathic clubfeet), seen from 2016 to 2019 were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed. The deformity was unilateral in 52 (57.1%) children (32 right, 20 left) and bilateral in 39 (42.9%). The mean age at presentation was 2 (range, 1-30) weeks, and the mean follow-up was 21.5 (range, 12-36) months. All the clubfeet were treated according to the Ponseti method. After removing the cast, a foot abduction brace (Dennis Brown splint) was worn. A complex clubfoot deformity was identified in 12% (n=11) children. At the follow-up, the Pirani score, recurrence status, and brace compliance were recorded. Recurrent deformity was defined as any deformity recurrence requiring manipulation, recasting, or surgical treatment. Brace compliance was assessed per the parents' report. Results The median number of children in a family was 3 (range, 1-12). A total of 53 (58.2%) parents had up to 3 children, and 38 (41.8%) parents had more than 3 children. Of the patients, 22 (24.2%) had younger siblings and 25 (26.4%) had a family history of clubfoot. A total of 58 feet (44.6%) in 40 children (43.9%) developed recurrence. Brace non-compliance was the main risk factor for recurrence, increasing the recurrence rate 32-fold compared with that of compliant parents (odds ratio [OR], 32.67, 95% confidence interval [CI], 10.02-106.49; p=0.001). The rate of non-compliance with brace use was 51.6% (n=47). Brace non-compliance was significantly associated with having a younger sibling (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.36-11.2; p=0.011) and having a complex deformity (OR, 11.62; 95% CI, 1.42-95.1; p=0.022) but was not associated with the total number of children (OR, 1.61; 95% CI, 0.7-3.73; p=0.265). Conclusion Our study shows that having new siblings in the first years of the Ponseti treatment may increase the brace non-compliance by minimizing the attention paid to the children with clubfeet by their parents. Nonetheless, complex clubfoot deformity may promote brace compliance by increasing the parents' interest during the treatment process. Level of evidence Level IV, Therapeutic Study.

Background Congenital clubfoot is one of the common congenital orthopaedic deformities. Pirani and Dimeglio scoring systems are two classification systems for measuring the severity of the clubfoot. However, the relation between the initial amount of each of these scores and the treatment parameters is controversial. Methods Patients with severe and very severe idiopathic clubfoot undergoing Ponseti treatment were entered. Their initial Pirani and Dimeglio scores, the number of castings as a short-term treatment parameter, and the recurrences as a long-term parameter until the age of three were prospectively documented. Results One hundred patients (143 feet) with mean age of 9.51 ± 2.3 days including 68 males and 32 females and the mean initial Pirani score of 5.5 ± 0.5 and the mean initial Dimeglio score of 17.1 ± 1.6 were studied. The incidence of relapse was 8.4 %( n = 12). The mean initial Pirani score (P < 0.001) and the mean initial Dimeglio score (P < 0.003) of the feet with recurrence were significantly more than the non-recurrence feet. The mean number of casts in the recurrence group (7 ± 0.9) was significantly more than the feet without recurrences (6.01 ± 1.04) (P = 0.002). The ROC curve suggested the Pirani score of 5.75 and the Dimeglio score of 17.5 as the cut-off points of these scores for recurrence prediction. Conclusion In our study, Pirani and Dimeglio scores are markedly related with more number of casts and recurrence in patients with severe and very severe clubfoot. Also, we have introduced new cut-off points for both classification systems for prediction of recurrence. To the best of our knowledge, this finding has not been introduced into the English literature.

Introduction:Ponseti technique is the treatment of choice for idiopathic congential talipes equino varus (ICTEV) since 1950s with excellent treatment outcomes reported worldwide. However, despite the popularity of this technique, Uganda adapted it as a treatment modality for ICTEV in May 2005. Since then, the effectiveness of delivered Ponseti care to children with this very common orthopaedic deformity under the supervision of an orthopaedic surgeon was unknown. The implication of this undertaking was that, satisfactory outcomes would then support the Ministry of Health (MOH)-Uganda´s decision to embrace this mode of treatment and if the outcomes were unsatisfactory, MOH would then consider a policy revision in this regard. To assess the midterm treatment outcomes of children with ICTEV who had been enrolled for treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital in the period of 2006-2009. Methods:in November/December 2013, a cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the treatment outcomes of 68 feet of 45 children using the designed questionnaire and the PBS score; a pilot study of 10 neonates was performed prior to research. A good treatment outcome meant having a foot or feet that did not require any major or minor surgery. Results:forty-five (45) children with 68 ICTEV feet were evaluated; males 29 (64.4%) and 16 (35.6%) females with a mean age of 73.22 months (SD 11.364, range 48-96 months). Among the feet assessed, 46 (68%) had good to excellent outcomes while 22 (32%) had a relapse of moderate and severe deformity. Good functionality was seen in 61.8% out of which, 69% and 55.9% had no limitation in walking or running respectively. Conclusion:Ponseti treatment technique in children with ICTEV under the care of predominantly orthopaedic officers with some supervision from orthopaedic surgeons had fair to good midterm outcomes even in low resource settings like Uganda. Public health approach should be embraced in the management of clubfoot in Uganda by enhancing adequate comprehensive support supervision and establishment of reliable institutionalized systems for patient follow up which will lead to early detection and treatment of relapsed ICTEV cases or neglected clubfeet in the communities.

Objective: Idiopathic clubfoot deformity is a condition in pediatric orthopedics with a prevalence of 1 in 1000. This study reports the outcomes of clubfoot treatment in Ghana. Methods: The study was Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved. Patients with clubfoot were treated by the Ponseti method including weekly casting, Achilles tendon lengthening (TAL), and prolonged bracing. Data points collected included: extent of clubfoot, age, relapse, tenotomy prevalence, and number of casts. Results: Out of 1,634 patients, 72.4% were less than a year of age at the time of the first cast, 82.6% had more than eight casts prior to bracing, and 74.0% had a percutaneous Achilles tenotomy prior to the final cast placement. Only 1.2% of patients suffered a relapse. Conclusion: In Ghana, delays in seeking in treatment are common. Optimal results for the Ponseti treatment occur in children who present prior to the age of one. In the current study, 27.6% of children delayed treatment until after one. We recommend a community advocacy program to educate leaders and medical personnel about the Ponseti method. Despite a delay of treatment in 25% of the patients, there was only a 1.2% relapse rate. We recommend the Ponseti method in Ghana for children of all ages.

Currently, the Ponseti method has become the most popular technique for the management of congenital clubfoot. Besides this treatment, the functional method or the 'French method' (FFM) represents another treatment option. Throughout our study, we will describe this method, based on the 'Saint Vincent de Paul' protocol with some modifications that we bring progressively. Carried out over the last 20 years at our institution. In total 145 children (210 clubfeet) were treated using FFM. Our technique is based on the 'Saint Vincent de Paul' protocol from Paris. This method consists of daily manipulations of the feet by specialised physiotherapists associated with thermoformable orthotics devices. An evaluation of the patient at 5 year of age is performed. Gait analysis was introduced in 2011 as a complementary assessment tool. Less than 15% of the feet underwent a surgical procedure at walking age. Compliance to treatment was significantly higher than with the Ponseti method. At the last follow-up, 80% of the children had good to excellent results without major residual deformity. Totally 7% of the children required a later intervention either for recurrence or for major residual deformity. FFM is an alternative approach in the management of clubfoot that has proven to be successful due to the precision and modularity of its splinting system. Good compliance and low recurrence rate are other elements to consider. However, it requires a well-trained physical therapist. The main disadvantages of this method are the high cost compared to the Ponseti method and the difficulty of applying this method in developing countries.

Background Synthetic casting materials have been used as alternatives to plaster of Paris (POP) in the treatment of clubfoot using the Ponseti method. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of children with idiopathic clubfoot managed by the Ponseti method using POP versus semirigid fiberglass (SRF). Methods Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for all newborns with idiopathic clubfoot who underwent manipulation and casting by the Ponseti technique between January 2013 and December 2016 at 2 different institutions. In all, 136 consecutive clubfeet were included, of which 68 underwent casting with POP (Group A), and 68 were casted using SRF (Group B). Statistical analysis was performed using the Fisher exact test for categorical variables, and the unpaired t test for quantitative parameters. Results Mean age at time of first cast was 10 days (range, 3 to 21 d). Mean Pirani score at start of treatment was 4.6 and 4.5 in Groups A and B, respectively. Mean number of casts for each patient in Group A was 5.2 against 4.2 in patients in Group B. Mean follow-up was 63.8 months (range, 42 to 88 mo). In each group, 4 cases of relapse were reported (2.9%). No complications related to cast phase or brace phase were recorded. Shorter duration of cast treatment was recorded in Group B. Conclusions Despite its higher cost and slightly lower moldability, the use of SRF in experienced hands showed comparable results in idiopathic clubfeet treated by the Ponseti technique. Level of evidence Level III.

A retrospective comparative study was conducted, aiming to identify factors associated with dropout from clubfoot treatment by Ponseti method in low- and middle-income countries. A prospectively gathered database of patients who received treatment at a high-volume urban clubfoot clinic over 6 years was queried for dropouts. A "dropout" was identified as any child that had not had a visit within 3 weeks of casting, 4 weeks of tenotomy or 6 months of brace follow-up. The second part of the study was a telephonic interview with caregivers of the identified dropouts to ascertain their reasons for discontinuing treatment. Of the 965 patients treated during the study period, there were 155 (16.06%) dropouts-137 (88.38%) during bracing phase and 18 (11.62%) during casting phase. Age at presentation was significantly higher among the dropouts as compared to those who did not dropout (median 9.5 and 7 months for casting and bracing dropouts respectively versus 3.5 months for regular follow-ups, p.001). No significant correlation was found between patient dropout and sex (p = .061), or laterality (p = .071). Thirty-seven caregivers (23.8%) could be contacted telephonically; including 6 casting and 31 bracing dropouts. The most commonly cited reason for dropout from treatment was lack of family support (75.7%), followed by distance to the clinic (59.5%) and unavailability of transport (54.1%). Sixteen caregivers (43.2%) dropped out on account of migration to another town/state. Maintenance of a meticulous registry with regular update of caregivers' contact details, and interventions to mitigate the identified hurdles can help in reducing treatment dropouts.

Purpose Deformation of talus in idiopathic clubfoot is a common problem both surgically and after treatment with the Ponseti technique, although the cause of deformation and its clinical impact on the function of the ankle is not yet known. The goal of this research was to evaluate factors leading to talar dome deformation (flat-top talus) after the Ponseti technique Methods This was a single-center, cross-sectional study. Fifty patients with virgin idiopathic clubfoot were enrolled from our consecutive series of data from August 2017 to January 2018 from our clubfoot patients who completed their casting and bracing protocol. Weight-bearing lateral X-rays of the ankle were examined in patients to determine the flattening of the talus dome and its correlation with age, sex, BMI, number of casts, and casting period. In these patients, the frequency of tenotomy and its relationship to the flat top talus was also examined. Results The study included a total of 50 children, of which 36 (72%) were boys and 14 (28%) were girls. The mean age, height, weight, and BMI of the children were 5.06 ± 0.79 years, 101.6 ± 6.34 cm, and 19.7 ± 1.57 kg, respectively. No significant difference between the normal and flat top talus category was found in age and BMI (p=0.611 and 0.997, respectively). Whereas, relative to normal children, the children who had flat-top talus were on casts for a longer period of time (median: 9 vs. 6 weeks, p=0.026). In addition, a higher proportion of children with more than six casts developed flat-top talus than those with fewer than six casts (69.2% vs. 30.8%, p=0.005). After treatment, a total of 13 (26%) patients developed flat top talus, of which 11 (84.6%) were boys and two (15.4%) were girls (p=0.303). No substantial association between tenotomy and flat top talus (p=0.340) could be identified. Conclusion Flat top talus is a complication of improper manipulation specifically correlated with the number of Ponseti casts applied. Maintenance of cast treatment for more than three months may result in flat-top talus with no significant association with tenotomy of the tendoachilles.

OBJECTIVE The standard of care in treating congenital clubfoot is the Ponseti method. Resident education of this skill traditionally involves direct casting of patients with attending feedback. With increased clinical time demands, mastery of the skill may not be achievable using direct resident – patient interactions. We describe a novel Ponseti cast simulator using pressure sensors to teach this skill. DESIGN A novel Ponseti cast simulator was constructed using a standardized model and pressure sensors. A pre-training baseline (trial 1) and post education (trial 2) was made and scored using an objective structured assessment of technical skill (OSATS) checklist. Pressure sensors were placed at the first metatarsal and talar head to record cast forces. SETTING The study was performed in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at an academic tertiary care hospital. PARTICIPANTS Study participants included 6 junior orthopedic residents defined as post-graduate year (PGY) 1 to 3, 6 senior orthopedic residents (PGY 4,5), and a board –certified pediatric orthopedic surgeon to serve as a control. RESULTS Trial 1 OSATS scores were significantly higher in senior residents (9.7 ± 1.5) than junior residents (5.2 ± 1.2) (p = 0.004). Trial 2 OSATS scores were also significantly higher in senior residents than junior residents: 13.7 ± 1.4 vs. 5.8 ± 1.6 (p = 0.003). Additionally, senior residents significantly improved scores between the first 2 trials 9.7 ± 1.5 vs. 13.7 ± 1.4 (p = 0.003), while junior residents did not 5.2 ± 1.2 vs. 5.8 ± 1.6 (p = 0.4566). In addition, there were no significant differences between junior, and senior resident Trial 1 talar head pressures or first metatarsal pressures, or Trial 2 first metatarsal pressures. CONCLUSIONS This is the first casting simulation model to use pressure sensors as a way to objectively measure cast application pressure. This simulator may be useful in an orthopedic training programs to teach Ponseti casting.

OBJECTIVE: This narrative review aims to summarize the historical steps of clubfoot treatment in Italy, identifying the centuries-old historical advancement in the deformity management and the most influent involved people. BACKGROUND: Clubfoot, also referred to as congenital talipes equinovarus, is a relatively common deformity that has significative consequences in the child if it is left untreated. Effective and early treatment of clubfoot has been praised as one of the most successful practice of modern pediatric orthopedics and both surgical and conservative techniques have been proposed over the decades. As an example, Codivilla’s posteromedial release (PMR) has been known internationally as one of the milestones of surgical treatment. METHODS: The narrative review includes clinical studies and reviews concerning clubfoot that were written in English, German and Italian. As an historical review, no limits of years were considered. The search was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Medline and Cochrane Library databases up to January 2021. A combination of search terms including ‘history’, ‘clubfoot’, ‘conservative management’, ‘Codivilla’, ‘Ponseti method’, ‘relapse’ was utilized. Particular attention was given to papers written by Italian authors. CONCLUSIONS: Current clubfoot treatment arises from several studies and clinical research over the centuries. Many surgeons, starting from mid-16th century, have studied the deformity trying to find a successful and effective technique to achieve full correction. Italian scientists, surgeons and prestigious institutions surely took part in this process.

This review aimed to investigate gross motor skill development in children with congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) following the Ponseti method of casting and bracing. Summary of evidence revealed through a systematic search of electronic databases completed in May 2019. A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement was used to report and conduct the study. The McMaster Critical Review Form was used to critically appraise included studies and a descriptive synthesis of the results is reported. Inclusion criteria for studies included participants aged above 4 years, with a diagnosis of CTEV, treated via the Ponseti method and followed up with valid gross motor outcome measures. The comparator was a control group of typically developing children, or reference data. The searches resulted in 619 unique articles. Eight studies (retrospective cohort/case control studies) met inclusion criteria. There were nine different outcome measures used with 29 domains being relevant to this review. Synthesis of the findings found no significant difference between the gross motor skills of children with CTEV treated with Ponseti and typically developing children. The balance domains of three measures were consistently lower for the CTEV group versus controls/ normative data. Yet, it is still demonstrated that most gross motor skills are within the typically developing range. It must be considered, however, that there is a spectrum of severity of CTEV and overall gross motor function should be monitored. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

Objective: To evaluate concordance between prenatal and postnatal diagnosis of congenital talipes equinovarus (cTEV), rates of surgery and postnatal outcomes in relation to the prenatal classification of severity. Study design: This is a retrospective observational cohort study on fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of cTEV between 2004 and 2018. All cases of isolated cTEV in singleton pregnancies were included. Postnatally, the Ponseti method was applied. Children were followed-up postnatally for at least two years, with a specific focus on neurodevelopmental outcome. Results: The cohort included 81 fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of cTEV confirmed postnatally in 86.4% of cases. Concordance between prenatal and postnatal assessment was good for both laterality and degree of severity (k = 0.61 and 0.66, respectively). The average Pirani score, number of casts and rates of Achilles tendon tenotomy were higher for III degree cTEV (p < 0.001). Within this group only, the rate of relapse was 11% and the rates of major surgery was 6%. The postnatal outcome was normal in 68.6% newborns, while 14% of cases had a diagnosis of minor additional findings and 17% had an impairment of neurological development. None of the outcome was statistically correlated to the prenatal assessment of laterality or degree. Conclusions: The accuracy of prenatal ultrasound for isolated cTEV is 86% with a false positive diagnosis of 14%. The grade of cTEV assigned prenatally correlates to postnatal severity and longer orthopedic rehabilitation in terms of number of casts and need of surgery. The assessment of the correlation between cTEV and neurological impairment requires further prospective studies on larger cohorts.

The Ponseti method of manipulative treatment for clubfoot deformity became widely adopted by pediatric orthopaedic surgeons beginning in the mid-1990s. The technique allows correction of most idiopathic clubfeet using gentle manipulation and cast application. The treatment represents a marked advance over past efforts to gain correction of the foot through extensive release surgery. In 2006, we began a Clubfoot Clinic at the Orthopaedic Institute for Children in Los Angeles, California dedicated to managing clubfoot patients using Ponseti's method. An IRB-approved database of patient-related, treatment related, and demographic variables was assembled and used to ascertain the outcome of treatment as well as to address parental questions regarding certain aspects of treatment. Here, we present a review of our body of work, which has improved clinical decision making as well as our ability to better inform our patients' parents regarding the treatment and prognosis of the Ponseti method. Studies from our institution showed that while relapses and the need for extra-articular tibialis anterior tendon transfer (TATT) surgery remain common to the Ponseti method, these events do not adversely affect overall patient function or satisfaction. These findings were not unlike those of classic studies reported from Ponseti's institution. We conclude that the Ponseti method is not only a technique to achieve initial correction of an idiopathic clubfoot, but also how to manage relapses that will inevitably occur in many patients. While relapses and tendon transfer surgery are likely to remain common with this treatment method, these events do not adversely affect overall patient function or satisfaction. The parents of infants whose clubfeet are managed using the Ponseti method should be counselled accordingly.