Functional outcome of idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus treated by Ponseti method: a midterm study

Abstract

Background: Idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus is a characterized by deformities with lot of ambiguity regarding the forces maintaining the deformity and preventing its correction. The aim of our midterm study is to analyze the functional outcome of idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus using Ponseti's technique in Indian children presenting to us within the first three months of life without any prior treatment. Methods: 87 patients with 132 feet were treated for correction of idiopathic congenital talipes equino varus using the Ponseti technique from September 2009 to January 2013 at our Institute. These patients were followed up in a prospective manner for a period ranging from twelve months to fifty seven months (mean period of follow up was thirty two months). Children were evaluated before casting and at the end of casting, then at monthly intervals for another two months. Further follow up was done every six weeks till three years of age and then at six monthly intervals. Results: Our overall good to fair result was seen in 87.6% of cases. Rest of them had poor functional outcome. Long term follow up of all patients till skeletal maturity is required to know the final outcome of our treatment. Conclusions: Severity of the deformity and the compliance of the parents and infants with orthotic devices for maintenance of the correction were the factors which ultimately determine the final outcome.