The effectiveness of Ponseti technique in the management of congenital club foot: A systematic review of the literature

Abstract

Objectives The general objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of Ponseti method in the management of congenital talipes equino varus (club foot) Research questions What is the evidence of effectiveness of the Ponseti method versus other conservative treatments in the management of congenital talipes equinovarus (club foot)? Types of participants This review will include any study using the Ponseti method to children 0-2 years old with idiopathic clubfoot born full term. Children with co-existing pathologies and those who underwent surgical procedures prior to commencing of Ponseti treatment will be excluded. Types of interventions The Ponseti method is a very well defined technique involving a number of manipulations and serial application of casts which gradually corrects plantar flexion of the ankle, inversion of the heel and the adduction of the hind and forefoot. This review will consider studies that include the Ponseti technique as an intervention. Outcome measures Correction of the position of the foot measured by: range of motion, time required for correction (weeks), number of relapses, number of children sent for extensive surgery.