Modified Ponseti technique of management of idiopathic clubfoot

Ponseti technique in the nonoperative management of idiopathic clubfoot is being followed worldwide and with good results. We present our results using a modification in this management to suit our practice. Twenty-one children with idiopathic clubfoot (33 feet: 12 bilateral, 9 unilateral) were treated at this center following the modified technique, between 2005 and 2008. The cases included were of Pirani scores 4-6. The patients were prospectively followed up clinically and radiologically for a minimum follow-up of 24 months (mean 27 months). We obtained good results (Pirani score 0) in 16 children, fair (Pirani score 1-3) in 3, and poor result (Pirani score >3) in terms of loss of correction in 2 of the cases. This modified technical protocol ensured good compliance of follow-up and hence maintenance of correction of the deformities. We conclude that as long as the basic principles of Ponseti technique are followed, any modification according to ones practice can still yield good results.