Traditional and accelerated Ponseti technique: a comparative study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the results of traditional and accelerated Ponseti techniques to clarify whether this technique can be done safely in reduced time with complete correction of the deformity and without complications. A total of 66 feet in 41 children with idiopathic club foot and with Pirani score no <4 were included; of these, 34 feet in 20 children were managed with the traditional Ponseti method with one cast a week, in the other 32 feet in 21 children, an accelerated technique was used with casting twice a week, and the Pirani score was used for initial assessment and for follow-up. The results were comparable for both groups; the mean number of casts for full correction was 4.88 ± 0.88 in the traditional group and 5.16 ± 0.72 in the accelerated group. Initial correction was obtained in all cases in both groups, and relapses were observed in 14.7 % in the traditional group and in 15.6 % in the accelerated group. Deformities required from four to seven casts for correction in both groups. There was a statistically significant reduction in the mean time required for correction from onset of manipulation till tenotomy or correction of equines without tenotomy which was 33.36 ± 6.69 days (21-42 days) in the traditional Ponseti group and 18.13 ± 3.02 days (11-22 days) in accelerated Ponseti (P = 0.001). Accelerated Ponseti technique significantly reduces the correction time without affecting the final results; it is quite as safe and effective as the traditional Ponseti.