Normalization of Forefoot Supination After Tibialis Anterior Tendon Transfer for Dynamic Clubfoot Recurrence

We aimed to evaluate the effect of tibialis anterior tendon transfer (TATT) on foot motion in children with clubfoot recurrence after initial Ponseti treatment.

Children with dynamic clubfoot recurrence after initial Ponseti treatment who underwent TATT between 2014 and 2017 were considered for inclusion. Exclusion criteria were neurological disease, split transfer of the tendon, additional bone or joint invasive surgery, and initial treatment abroad. Of 94 children (143 TATT), 36 met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen (47%) of the 36 children with 25 clubfeet and a mean age at the time of surgery of 6.8 years participated in the study. Gait analysis, including the Oxford foot model, was conducted preoperatively and postoperatively. Furthermore, kinematic and kinetic data were compared with those of age-matched healthy children (n=18).

Forefoot supination in relation to the hindfoot and tibia was reduced during swing and at initial contact after TATT compared with preoperative values. Forefoot supination in relation to the tibia at initial contact decreased from 12.4 to 5.2 degrees after TATT (control group, 6.0 degrees). The heel showed less dynamic varus and adduction movement after TATT compared with preoperatively. Maximum ankle power was reduced preoperatively and postoperatively compared with controls. Maximum ankle dorsiflexion slightly increased after TATT.

Gait analysis showed normalization of the main components of dynamic clubfoot recurrence after TATT. This joint-sparing surgery efficiently corrects recurrent dynamic deformity.

Level II-therapeutic.