Flat-top talus after clubfoot treatment: a literature review

Abstract

Flat-top talus (FTT) is a complication well-known to those treating clubfoot. Despite this, it receives little attention in textbooks, so our knowledge and understanding can be limited to anecdote and hearsay. In particular, its association with different treatments, especially the Ponseti method, is not well understood. This review provides some clarity on the possible pathoanatomical, radiological and iatrogenic causes of FTT. It summarises its prevalence following different treatments. It is seen after surgery, ‘pre-Ponseti’ casting and the Ponseti method, and seems least common following Ponseti. Potential surgical management strategies are also discussed.