International Recommendations to Manage Poststroke Equinovarus Foot Deformity Validated by a Panel of Experts Using Delphi

Abstract

ObjectiveTo establish international recommendations for the management of spastic equinovarus foot deformity. DesignDelphi method. SettingInternational study. ParticipantsA total of 24 international experts (N=24) in neuro-orthopedic deformities, from different specialties (Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine physicians, neurologists, geriatricians, orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons). InterventionsExperts answered 3 rounds of questions related to important aspects of diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of spastic equinovarus foot deformity. Main Outcome MeasuresA consensus was established when at least 80% of experts agreed on a statement ResultsA total of 52 items reached consensus. Experts recommend assessing effect of the deformity on functional activities before treatment. Before treatment, it is crucial to differentiate spastic muscle overactivity from soft tissue contractures, identify which muscles are involved in the deformity, and evaluate the activity of antagonist muscles. Motor nerve blocks, 2-dimensional video analysis, and radiologic examinations are often required to complement a clinical examination. The treatment of equinovarus foot depends on the correctability of the deformity and the patient's ability to stand or walk. The preoperative assessment should include an interdisciplinary consultation that must finalize a formal agreement between physicians and the patient, which will define personalized attainable goals before surgery. ConclusionThe establishment of guidelines on managing equinovarus foot will help physicians and surgeons, specialists, and nonspecialists to diagnoses and assess the deformity and direct patients to a network of experts to optimize patient functional recovery and improve their autonomy.