A prospective study of deformity correction using ponseti technique in idiopathic clubfoot

Introduction: Idiopathic congenital talipes equino varus is a complex deformity which is difficult to correct. The treatment of clubfoot is controversial and continues to be one of the biggest challenges in Paediatric Orthopaedics. Most Orthopedicians agree that the initial treatment should be non surgical and should be started soon after birth. We aimed to study a short term follow up of 75 patients treated by the Ponseti method at the Department of Orthopaedics, J.J.M. Medical College, Davangere to assess the efficacy of the treatment modality. Materials and Methods: 75 patients of idiopathic CTEV underwent the Ponseti method of treatment at Department of Orthopaedics in Chigateri Government Hospital, Davangere and Bapuji Hospital, Davangere attached to JJM Medical College, Davangere, during the period of from September 2020 to September 2022.Patients were followed up regularly every week during treatment and monthly after the completion of treatment. The severity of foot deformities were graded as per Pirani’s scoring system before treatment at follow up and after completion of treatment and results were assessed. Results: Out of 75 patients good results were obtained in 69 patients.6 patients developed recurrence of the deformity due to noncompliance with Dennis-Browne splint. Conclusion: The Ponseti method is a safe and cost effective treatment for congenital idiopathic clubfoot and radically decreases the need for extensive corrective surgery. There is high level of parent satisfaction regarding the correction of deformity. Non compliance with orthotics has been widely reported to be the main factor causing failure of the technique.