Ilizarov in relapsed clubfoot: a necessary evil?

This study aims to retrospectively evaluate the results of soft tissue distraction using Ilizarov in relapsed clubfeet following a previous posteromedial soft tissue release. This study, as compared with previous studies, has a cohort of patients with relapsed clubfeet only following posteromedial soft tissue release. Fifteen patients (16 feet) were assessed using the International Clubfoot Study Group score and plantigrade foot was achieved in all except one patient who had equinus deformity. Fourteen feet were graded as showing excellent or good result on the basis of the International Clubfoot Study Group (ICFSG) score. Although no patient had an ICFSG score of 0, parental satisfaction was good. This report supports the use of Ilizarov as the benefits offered outweigh the risk of associated complications, making this potentially cumbersome apparatus a useful tool in the armamentarium to treat relapsed clubfeet following soft tissue release.