Treatment of resistant idiopathic pes equinovarus: ten-year experience

Fifty cases of clubfeet (38 children) were evaluated 10 years after surgery. Turco's method was used in 22 cases, while 24 were managed with Achilles tendon lengthening and dorsal capsulotomy. After Turco's operation, good results were achieved in 69% and the deformity recurred in 31%. In the second group, the success rate was 63%. Recurrences are due to insufficient reduction of the talocalcaneonavicular joint. The authors conclude that Achilles tendon lengthening and posterior capsulotomy should be carried out by age 4 months. If by the age of 1 year the foot has not yet assumed its normal position, complete operative reduction is recommended. Preliminary results of histochemical studies of the peroneal muscles are presented.