The Ponseti method for treatment of congenital club foot.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review of the Ponseti technique for the treatment of congenital club foot covers a topic of recently renewed interest. Pediatric orthopedists and parents have become increasingly enthusiastic about the success of this technique, which has been practiced continuously at the University of Iowa since 1948 but only recently become widely utilized.

RECENT FINDINGS: Current literature has emphasized the reproducibility of these excellent results among multiple centers throughout the world. In addition, the role of the Internet, and accessibility of medical information have been central elements in the development of this phenomenon.

SUMMARY: The current research should convince physicians that all children should be managed by the Ponseti technique at the outset. This research should also reassure physicians and parents that the overwhelming majority of children with club feet can be successfully managed, without the need for major reconstructive surgery.