Results of an accelerated Ponseti protocol for clubfoot

J Pediatr Orthop. 2005 Sep-Oct;25(5):623-6. doi: 10.1097/01.bpo.0000162015.44865.5e.

Abstract

The Ponseti method has demonstrated excellent results when performed at weekly intervals, but it is not known whether correction can be accomplished in a shorter amount of time. This study evaluated the success in correction in relation to time between casts (5 or 7 days). The authors retrospectively reviewed 230 patients (319 clubfeet). One hundred sixty-five patients (72%) had undergone previous nonsurgical treatment elsewhere. Patients were assigned to 5 or 7 days based solely on geography. Ninety percent of patients required five or fewer casts for correction, and there was no difference between groups (P = 0.85). Average time from first cast to Achilles tenotomy was 16 days for the 5-day group and 24 days for the 7-day group (P = 0.001). Three patients (1.3%) required corrective surgery and there were 36 relapses (P = 0.4). In conclusion, the Ponseti method is very effective and the deformity can be corrected in a relatively short time.

MeSH terms

  • Achilles Tendon / surgery
  • Casts, Surgical*
  • Clinical Protocols
  • Clubfoot / surgery
  • Clubfoot / therapy*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Manipulation, Orthopedic / methods*
  • Recurrence
  • Time Factors