Outcomes of Management of Severe Clubfoot among Children by Ilizarov External Fixator

• Published in: Malaysian orthopaedic journal 2023-11, Vol.17 (3), p.9-16
• Main Authors: M, Nwet, R, Vignesh, W, Khaing, S, San, ZW, Ko
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: complex deformities; ilizarov frame; resistant clubfoot foot
• ISSN: 1985-2533; 2232-111X
• DOI: 10.5704/MOJ.2311.003

Introduction: Clubfoot remains the most common birth defect involving the musculoskeletal system. There are various surgical and non-surgical treatment options available for the management of clubfoot. Using the minimally invasive Ilizarov external fixator method has been reported to have good success rates and fewer complications. Materials and methods: This study aimed at analysing the morphological and functional outcomes of treating severe clubfoot by Ilizarov external fixator among children from July 2017 to March 2020. Thirty-two children who had either failed Ponseti / surgery or neglected with 44 clubfeet of Dieglio type III and type IV were included in the study. A short-leg walking cast was applied for an additional six weeks after removing of Ilizarov frame and additionally followed by an orthosis for another six weeks. Outcomes were measured by the functional rating system by Laaveg and Ponseti and interpretation done at 1 month and 12 months after the ankle-foot arthrosis. Results: About 86.4% of the patients had good or excellent outcome scores. Pre and post-Demeglio scores and functional rating scores were statistically significant (p