Congenital clubfoot

Abstract 

Congenital clubfoot, one of the most common musculoskeletal anomalies, varies considerably in severity and its response to treatment. The aetiology, pathogenesis and treatment have been subjects of wide debate since antiquity. Even today, there is little consensus on how the deformity is best treated and the literature devoted to clubfoot is voluminous and confusing. A comprehensive review article could take up an entire issue of this journal yet provide little insight into practical aspects of management. We have therefore decided to provide a brief overview of the subject and to emphasize two areas of current major interest; the aetiology and late management of the deformity in the adolescent and young adult. The aetiology is important because a true understanding of the precise nature of the deformity will ultimately be essential in determining the preferred method and timing of early correction. Historically, less emphasis has been placed on how best to manage impairment of function at skeletal maturity secondary to residual deformity and the sequelae of treatment in early childhood. A review article by Ponseti¹describes the early management in detail from a traditional and conservative point of view.

Keywords: congenital clubfoot, adult sequelae, aetiology

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