A Prospective Study of Outcome of Percutaneous Needle Tenotomy for Tendo-achilles Release in Congenital Talipes Equino Varus

Aim To study the outcome of percutaneous tenotomy of tendo-achilles using a wide bore needle in Congenital Talipes Equino Varus. Background Congenital Talipes Equino Varus is a commonly seen complex congenital foot deformity that can be treated conservative if the Ponseti technique is followed correctly. Percutaneous tenotomy of tendo-achilles forms an integral part of this technique. Material Methods Forty nine feet were prospectively studied in thirty two patients, treated with the Ponseti technique between July 2011 and June 2013, out of which forty feet (81.6%) required percutaneous needle tenotomy of tendo-achilles. Results Out of these forty feet, thirty six (90%) feet were managed successfully, without any complication of excessive bleeding, pseudo-aneurysm formation or neuro-vascular compromise, which was reported with the conventional tenotomy by a knife. Conclusion Percutaneous tenotomy of tendo-achilles with a needle is a easy to learn, safe and effective method of tenotomy in Ponseti technique.