THE IMPACT OF A DEDICATED PONSETI SERVICE ON OUTCOMES OF IDIOPATHIC CLUBFOOT TREATMENT

AimTo compare outcomes for children treated for idiopathic clubfeet with the Ponseti regimen before (2002–2004) and after (2005–2006) implementation of a dedicated Ponseti service.MethodA retrospective analysis of outcomes for all patients with idiopathic clubfeet treated in the 2 years before and after implementation of a dedicated Ponseti service was undertaken. Results were statistically analysed using Fisher's exact t-test.ResultsIn the original cohort treated between 2002–2004, with an ad-hoc service where children were treated in general paediatric orthopaedic clinics by a number of different consultants, 100 feet in 66 children were treated. 96 feet (96%) responded to initial casting. 85 feet (85%) required tendo-achilles tenotomy. 31 feet had a recurrence within the first 2 years (16 of which were successfully treated by repeat casting and/or tenotomy and/or transfer of the tendon of tibialis anterior, the remaining 15 requiring extensive soft tissue release). Between 2005–2006, with a dedicated P...