Study of the principles of ponseti technique in the management of idiopathic congenital talipes equinovarus

Abstract

Clubfoot is one of the commonest congenital conditions seen in orthopaedic practice. Though congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) exists from time immemorial, its etiology is unknown, pathology is complex and management is full of controversies. Till today, the orthopaedic surgeons are constantly confronted with new techniques and operations in its management. It requires judicious selection of cases and use of appropriate method of treatment. We have passed through the phase of forcible manipulation of clubfoot to microsurgical operative techniques and correction by external fixator. In spite of careful research it remains a source of dissatisfaction even to most enthusiastic surgeons. This study consists of treatment of idiopathic clubfoot conservatively using Ponseti technique. Keywords: idiopathic congenital talipes equino varus, ponseti technique, pirani score IntroductionIn the evolutionary process, humans attained the bipedal posture. This being a unique feature in animal kingdom, is mainly attributed to the evolutionary changes of the foot. If such a foot is deformed, the life style man adopted and supposed to live is greatly compromised. Clubfoot is one of the commonest congenital conditions seen in orthopaedic practice. Though congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) exists from time immemorial, its etiology is unknown, pathology is complex and management is full of controversies. Hippocrates 400 B.C described about club foot in his literature. Till today, the orthopaedic surgeons are constantly confronted with new techniques and operations in its management. It requires judicious selection of cases and use of appropriate method of treatment. We have passed through the phase of forcible manipulation of clubfoot to microsurgical operative techniques and correction by external fixator. In spite of careful research it remains a source of dissatisfaction even to most enthusiastic surgeons. This study consists of treatment of idiopathic clubfoot conservatively using Ponseti technique.