Results of modified Carroll technique in severe, resistant clubfeet

Abstract

Introduction: The malrotation of calcaneum and talus is the aetiology behind resistant clubfeet. The surgical release procedures are aimed at realignment of these pathological structures with minimal scarring and wound problems. Carroll’s technique uses 2 incisions to achieve this goal. Materials and Methods: A prospective study of twenty severe and resistant club feet of children aged 6 months to 18 months operated using a modified Carroll technique was done. All patients were followed up for atleast 36 months. They were assessed clinically by Dimeglio score and radiological angles namely mean talocalcaneal index, anteroposterior talocalcaneal angle and lateral talocalcaneal angle. Results: 8 severe clubfeet had improved to grade 1. In the remaining 12 very severe clubfeet improved to grade 1 in 9 patients and grade 2 in 3 patients based on Dimeglio method. There was significant improvement in radiological parameters as well. Conclusion: We found that this incision gives better exposure of the pathoanatomy of the clubfoot especially the posteromedial and posterolateral ligament complex with easy skin closure.