Treatment Outcome of Ponseti Method in the Management of Club Foot at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana: A Retrospective Study

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Clubfoot is a congenital deformity that affects the feet of newborns, presenting with abnormal positioning and shape of the foot and ankle. The Ponseti method has been widely recognized as an effective non-surgical treatment for clubfoot. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the treatment outcome of the Ponseti method in the management of clubfoot at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Ghana. A total of 82 patients with clubfoot who underwent treatment using the Ponseti method between January 2015 and December 2019 were included in the study. Data on patient demographics, initial Pirani score, number of casts required, compliance with bracing, and relapse rates were collected from medical records. The mean age at the start of treatment was 4.7 weeks, with a male predominance of 62.2%. The results showed a significant improvement in the initial Pirani score after treatment, with a mean reduction of 4.1 points. The average number of casts required per patient was 5.8. Compliance with bracing was reported in 74.4% of patients, which is considered satisfactory for maintaining correction. The overall relapse rate was 11%, with most relapses occurring within the first year of treatment. Furthermore, the study identified factors associated with treatment outcomes, including age at the start of treatment and initial severity of the deformity. Younger patients and those with lower initial Pirani scores had better treatment outcomes. The study also highlighted the importance of parental education and support in ensuring compliance with bracing, which is crucial for preventing relapse. In conclusion, the Ponseti method is an effective treatment option for clubfoot at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana, leading to significant improvements in foot deformity and functional outcomes. However, maintaining correction through proper bracing is essential to prevent relapse. This study provides valuable insights into the treatment outcome of clubfoot using the Ponseti method in a Ghanaian setting and underscores the importance of early intervention and comprehensive care for patients with clubfoot.