UNDERSTANDING CONGENITAL TALIPES EQUINOVARUS (CLUBFOOT) AND TREATMENT METHODS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

Abstract

Congenital talipes equinovarus (TEV), also known as clubfoot, is the most common musculoskeletal defect affecting the pediatric population. It is a deformity in which the foot faces inward due to abnormalities in the bones and muscles, and it may result in mobility issues if not treated. This review compiles existing literature regarding the etiology and pathophysiology of clubfoot and draws comparisons between the types of treatments. Treatment procedures evaluated include the Ponseti method, the French functional method, percutaneous Achilles tenotomy (PAT), anterior tibial muscle surgery, and posteromedial soft-tissue release (PMR). Patients are typically treated at a young age, starting shortly after birth. Due to advancements in medicine and technology, treatment for clubfoot tends to be highly effective, allowing patients to live independent lives without limitations on their mobility. Of the treatments discussed, the most widely used method is the Ponseti method because of its positive long term success rate.