Purpose: To report the treatment outcomes of V osteotomy and Ilizarov technique for residual idiopathic or neurogenic clubfeet.
Methods: 13 patients (14 feet) aged 8 to 18 years underwent V osteotomy via the calcaneus and talus, followed by gradual distraction of soft tissue and bone for foot reconstruction. Eight of the clubfeet were idiopathic and had undergone previous surgeries. The remaining 6 were neurogenic and their pathologies were: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (n=2), myelomeningocele (n=2), neurofibromatosis (n=1), and distal arthrogryposis (n=1). Three of them had undergone previous surgeries. The Ilizarov frames were retained for 3 to 6 months and the patients were followed up for 1.8 to 8.9 years. Range of movement of the ankle and foot, appearance and position, gait, pain, function, and patient satisfaction were assessed according to the modified clubfoot grading system. The talo-1st metatarsal angle was measured on anteroposterior radiographs.
Results: Scores associated with the appearance and position of the foot, and thus patient satisfaction were significantly improved, but not for range of movement, pain, and function. The mean preoperative and final talo-1st metatarsal angles were 39.7 and 8.7 degrees, respectively (p<0.01). Ten feet achieved the plantigrade position, one had residual equinus, and 3 had residual adduction and supination.
Conclusion: Patient satisfaction improved significantly despite no major improvement in pain, function, and range of movement of the ankle and foot. This reflects the importance of the appearance and position of the foot, and justifies the decision to undergo this long and demanding procedure.