Fifteen years of Clinical Experience in Treatment of Children with Idiopathic Talipes Equino-Varus Using Ponseti Method; A Retrospective study

Background: An estimated 1-2 per 1,000 births are affected by idiopathic clubfoot. Ponseti method has a success rate over 90%. Early intervention for relapses is crucial. The objective of this study is to describe 15 years of clinical experience in treatment of idiopathic club foot and to evaluate success of Ponseti method over a 15-year follow-up period. Methods: This is a retrospective study that included Eighty-six children with 120 idiopathic talipes equino-varus deformity (55 males & 31 females) who were admitted to Suez Canal University hospitals during period from October 2008 to October 2023. These foot deformities were evaluated using Diméglio system which was implemented during child's initial and last visit. Treatment for all patients was administered through Ponseti method. Results: Patients ages ranges from one week at first visit to 15 years old at last visit. Average casting duration were 5.8 ± 1.9 weeks. 49 (56.9%) patients were adherent to bracing but 37 (43%) patients weren’t. Average age of bracing discontinuation was 4 ± 0.7 years. Number of feet that needed no operative intervention were 73 (60.8%) feet and number of feet needed operative intervention were 47 (39.2%) feet. These operative procedures are either done in combination or done as a single procedure. Dimeglio Scoring System was significantly improved in the last visit compared to first visit. Conclusions: Ponseti method effectively treats idiopathic clubfoot. Relapses occur in 36% of cases, due to poor bracing compliance. Residual deformities could be corrected using various surgical procedures either alone or in combination.