The Use of the Ilizarov Method in the Correction of Neglected Clubfoot

Objectives: A clubfoot, or the Congenital Talipes Equinovarus, is one of the most common congenital orthopedic deformities, occurs in different severity. The Ilizarov method's external fixation and gradual distraction are considered the best choice of treatment for correction of severe. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Ilizarov technique in the correction of neglected clubfoot deformities. Methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, individuals were included in the study by census; the author treated sixteen feet in 14 children and adults with resistant club foot, the patients were treated with Ilizarov method. All patients were assessed pre operatively according to Pirani score and radiological technique and postoperatively through clinical follow up and according to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores. SPSS software was used for analysis and a significance level of less than 0.05 was considered. Results: The preoperative assessment of the patients showed that 12 (75.0%) of them were classified as having grade III Pirani scores, with a mean score of 5.063 ± 0.6551, among them 11 (68.7%) were subjected to elongation of tendo-Achilles, plantar fasciatomy, and mid tarsal osteotomy. The radiological findings, pre- and post-operatively showed a high statistical difference in relation to Talo calcaneal angle- antero-posterior, Talo calcaneal angle- lateral, and Talo first metatarsal angle. Patients’ scores showed that the outcome of 9 (56.25%) of them was satisfactory. The postoperative clinical assessment of the patients revealed that 12 (75.0%) of the patients had achieved more than 90° ankle dorsiflexion, and 13 (81.25%) had a normal foot appearance. Also, the position of the foot when standing showed that 10 (62.5%) had 5° valgus and the majority 12 (75.0%) had achieved normal gait. Conclusion: The application of Ilizarov technique could be considered as a convenient, efficient, and successful method for neglected clubfeet deformities.