English

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Surgical correction of congenital talipes equino varus (ctev) is to address adequately all aspects of this complex foot deformity. Various exposures have been elucidated with varying results and complications. This prospective study discusses the cincinnati approach advocated by Mackay to address the various aspects of clubfoot correction. Objective: To study the adequacy of exposure, wound healing and problems related to Cincinnati approach. To study the effectiveness of primary surgical correction. METHODS: The present prospective study includes treatment of 24 feet in 21 patients with clubfoot treated with posteromedial and lateral soft tissue release by Cincinnati approach and followed up with an average follow up of 6.9 months. 3 (12.5%) were followed up for 1 year and 3 (12.5%) lost for the follow up. 18 (75%) were followed up to 6 months. All were resistant to correction by conservative method. Age at operation averaged 1.6 year, ranged from 9 months to 3 years. RESULTS: Results were evaluated using Laaveg and Ponseti functional rating system of clubfoot. Postoperatively the average arc of movement in ankle joint was 370, which was 50% of normal limb. Inversion, eversion movement of subtalar joint was 230, bimalleolar angle was 770.The functional results were excellent in 6 feet (25%), good in 12 feet (50%), fair in 5 feet (20.83%) and poor in 1 foot (4.17%). In our series complications encountered were post-operative focal necrosis in 3 feet (12.5%) and marginal necrosis in 3 feet (12.5%). CONCLUSION: Cincinnati incision provides an adequate exposure for extensive surgical release under direct vision, there by bony realignment of talus over calcaneus was restored and hence the restoration of normal bimalleolar angle. Skin closure is not found to be a problem in achieving a primary closure. Wound healing leaves only a thin and cosmetically acceptable scar.