Assessment of talipes equinovarus treated by Ponseti technique: three-year preliminary report

Abstract

Background: The Ponseti method has become increasingly popular in the treatment of congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV). Current methods of assessment focus on clinical, functional and radiological outcomes which are subjective and often difficult to repeat. However, integration of biomechanical evaluation can provide objective and quantifiable analysis. This study aims to evaluate the treatment outcome of CTEV patients on the basis of long-term clinical, functional and biomechanical assessment.

Methods: Following treatment, five children with CTEV were reviewed annually for the period 2008-2010. Clinical and functional outcomes were graded using parental questionnaires and clinical examination. Biomechanical parameters were evaluated using digital foot pressure studies.

Results: The study group recorded good clinical and functional outcomes. However, biomechanical studies have been able to identify subtle abnormalities that would be unapparent otherwise on clinical examination.

Conclusions: It is recommended that biomechanical assessment be integrated into the overall evaluation of the outcome of CTEV after treatment.