Establishment of a Novel Rat Model of Gram-Negative Periprosthetic Joint Infection Using Cementless Hip Hemiarthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Gram-negative periprosthetic joint infections (GN-PJIs) present unique challenges. Our aim was to establish a clinically representative GN-PJI model that recapitulates biofilm formation in vivo. We also hypothesized that biofilm formation on the implant surface would affect its ability to osseointegrate. METHODS: Three-dimensionally-printed medical-grade titanium hip implants were used to replace the femoral heads of male Sprague-Dawley rats. GN-PJI was induced using 2 bioluminescent Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains: a reference strain (PA14-lux) and a mutant biofilm-defective strain (ΔflgK-lux). Infection was monitored in real time using an in vivo imaging system (IVIS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Bacterial loads were quantified utilizing the viable colony count. Biofilm formation at the bone-implant interface was visualized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Implant stability, as an outcome, was directly assessed by quantifying osseointegration using microcomputed tomography, and indirectly assessed by identifying gait-pattern changes. RESULTS: Bioluminescence detected by the IVIS was focused on the hip region and demonstrated localized infection, with greater ability of PA14-lux to persist in the model compared with the ΔflgK-lux strain, which is defective in biofilm formation. This was corroborated by MRI, as PA14-lux induced relatively larger implant-related abscesses. Biofilm formation at the bone-implant interface induced by PA14-lux was visualized using FE-SEM versus defective-biofilm formation by ΔflgK-lux. Quantitatively, the average viable colony count of the sonicated implants, in colony-forming units/mL, was 3.77 × 108 for PA14-lux versus 3.65 × 103 for ΔflgK-lux, with a 95% confidence interval around the difference of 1.45 × 108 to 6.08 × 108 (p = 0.0025). This difference in the ability to persist in the model was reflected significantly on implant osseointegration, with a mean intersection surface of 4.1 × 106 ± 1.99 × 106 µm2 for PA14-lux versus 6.44 × 106 ± 2.53 × 106 µm2 for ΔflgK-lux and 7.08 × 106 ± 1.55 × 106 µm2 for the noninfected control (p = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this proposed, novel in vivo biofilm-based model is the most clinically representative for GN-PJI to date, since animals can bear weight on the implant, poor osseointegration was associated with biofilm formation, and localized PJI was assessed by various modalities. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This model will allow for more reliable testing of novel biofilm-targeting therapeutics.

Effect of low-level laser therapy on the time needed for leveling and alignment of mandibular anterior crowding.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on overall leveling and alignment time of mandibular anterior crowding and associated pain after initial archwire placement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-two females (18-25 years) with mandibular anterior crowding were randomly allocated into laser and control groups. Eligibility criteria included Angle Class I molar relationship and Little's irregularity index (LII) from 4 to 10 mm. Randomization was accomplished with a computer-generated random list. A 0.014-inch copper-nickel-titanium (Cu-NiTi) wire was inserted immediately after bonding of 0.022-inch Roth brackets followed by 0.016-inch Cu-NiTi, 0.016 × 0.022-inch NiTi then 0.017 × 0.025-inch stainless steel wire after completion of alignment. In-Ga-As laser was applied to the mandibular anterior segment in the laser group on days 3, 7, and 14, then at 1 month followed by every 2 weeks until completion of leveling and alignment. Visual analogue scale questionnaires were completed by each patient over 7 days from initial archwire placement. Digital models were used to monitor changes in the irregularity index. Blinding was applicable for outcome assessors only. RESULTS: The mean time for leveling and alignment was significantly lower in the laser compared to the control group (68.2 ± 28.7 and 109.5 ± 34.7 days, respectively). The laser group displayed a significantly higher mean alignment improvement percentage as well as lower pain scores compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Within the constraints of the current study, LLLT has a potential for acceleration of anterior segment alignment as well as reduction of the pain associated with placement of initial archwires.

Relationship between vitamin D deficiency and success of cardioversion in patients with atrial fibrillation.

BACKGROUND: Inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Vitamin D deficiency has been found to increase vulnerability to AF. The authors aimed to determine the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and cardioversion success in AF patients. METHODS: The study included 200 persistent AF patients presenting for cardioversion. Serum vitamin D level was sampled on admission. The success of cardioversion was assessed and patients divided into two groups: successful or failed (group I and II, respectively). Vitamin D level was assessed and patients were divided into three groups: deficient, insufficient, and sufficient vitamin D level. Cardioversion was performed pharmacologically or electrically. Failure of cardioversion was defined as: (1) detection of AF rhythm in 12-lead ECG recording immediately after cardioversion or within 6­month follow-up, or (2) ECG Holter monitoring of AF lasting > 30 s at 6­month follow-up. RESULTS: There was a highly statistically significant difference in baseline serum vitamin D level between group I and group II (P-value < 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences between the three groups in terms of vitamin D levels regarding age, gender, body mass index, smoking, and left atrial diameter. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that AF cardioversion failure was associated with vitamin D deficiency in patients without structural heart disease, while sufficient and insufficient vitamin D levels were associated with successful cardioversion. Therefore, vitamin D level assessment before cardioversion may help predict the success of cardioversion, and possible correction of deficient vitamin D levels may increase the chance of successful cardioversion.

2021 Frank Stinchfield Award: A novel cemented hip hemiarthroplasty infection model with real-time in vivo imaging in rats : an animal study.

AIMS: The aims of this study were to develop an in vivo model of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in cemented hip hemiarthroplasty, and to monitor infection and biofilm formation in real-time. METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats underwent cemented hip hemiarthroplasty via the posterior approach with pre- and postoperative gait assessments. Infection with Staphylococcus aureus Xen36 was monitored with in vivo photoluminescent imaging in real-time. Pre- and postoperative gait analyses were performed and compared. Postmortem micro (m) CT was used to assess implant integration; field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) was used to assess biofilm formation on prosthetic surfaces. RESULTS: All animals tolerated surgery well, with preservation of gait mechanics and weightbearing in control individuals. Postoperative in vivo imaging demonstrated predictable evolution of infection with logarithmic signal decay coinciding with abscess formation. Postmortem mCT qualitative volumetric analysis showed high contact area and both cement-bone and cement-implant interdigitation. FE-SEM revealed biofilm formation on the prosthetic head. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the utility of a new, high-fidelity model of in vivo PJI using cemented hip hemiarthroplasty in rats. Inoculation with bioluminescent bacteria allows for non-invasive, real-time monitoring of infection. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):9-16.

Correlation of Patient-Reported Outcomes After Periacetabular Osteotomy With Femoral Head Coverage and Acetabular Orientation: A Single-Center Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Gaining a better understanding of the underlying pattern of acetabular dysplasia 3-dimensionally can help better guide treatment and optimize clinical outcomes after periacetabular osteotomy (PAO). PURPOSE: (1) To examine the relationship between femoral head coverage before and after PAO for dysplasia and patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) scores and (2) to assess if the direction/orientation of correction of the acetabulum can be predicted based on the Ottawa classification. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database from a single-center institutional registry of PAO was conducted, and PROM scores at a minimum of 2 years were analyzed. A total of 79 hips (67 patients [56 female]; mean age at surgery, 27.5 years [range, 15.8-53.7 years]) were available for inclusion. According to the Ottawa classification, 54 hips (68.4%) had global deficiency, 15 hips (18.9%) had posterior deficiency, and 10 hips (12.7%) had anterior deficiency. Hip2Norm software was used to analyze the 3-dimensional coverage of the femoral head. Statistical analysis was conducted to look at significant predictors of improvements in PROMs using the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) Activities of Daily Living subscale. RESULTS: At a mean follow-up of 3.1 years (range, 2.0-7.4 years), all functional outcome scores improved significantly. A postoperative total femoral coverage <75.7%, posterior coverage (PC) <45.2%, and femoral head extrusion index >15.5% were all associated with not reaching the MCID for the HOOS Activities of Daily Living subscale. Multivariate analysis showed that PC was the single most important significant modifier influencing functional outcomes after PAO for the treatment of acetabular dysplasia, with an odds ratio of 6.0 (95% CI, 1.8-20.4; P = .004). One-way analysis of variance showed a significant difference comparing the mean change in radiographic measurements, that is, anterior coverage, PC, and total femoral coverage, per the Ottawa classification (P < .001). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that postoperative femoral head coverage and acetabular orientation were significant predictors of PROM scores. Classifying acetabular dysplasia into 3 groups based on the plane of instability could optimize the planning of PAO by giving a better understanding of the 3-dimensional deformity.

Ten-Year Experience With the Anterior Approach to Total Hip Arthroplasty at a Tertiary Care Center.

BACKGROUND: The anterior approach (AA) to total hip arthroplasty (THA) has advantages for patients and healthcare providers. However, some studies have reported high rates of adverse events when introducing AA-THA. This was not consistent with our center's experience, where 4 senior surgeons safely introduced AA-THA into practice. The purpose of this study is to define the adverse event rates associated with the introduction of AA-THA by a group of experienced surgeons at a single tertiary care center and define experiential factors that may modify adverse event rates. METHODS: Retrospective review of prospectively collected data for an observational cohort of all patients undergoing a THA between 2006 and 2017 was conducted. Four senior surgeons at a single institution operated on 1087 primary elective hips using AA-THA. RESULTS: Between 2006 and 2016, AA-THA rose from 1.5% to 53.2% of annual THA. Adverse events included intraoperative events, early postoperative periprosthetic fractures, dislocation, implant failure, early infection, and wound complications. We observed an overall 90-day adverse event rate of 6.4% (of 1087 hips). The adverse event rate was 41.6% (of 12 hips) in the first 12 months of the study period and 3.6% (of 166 hips) in the final 12 months of the study period reviewed. Sixty hips (5.5%) required a reoperation with or without revision of components, 1 (8.3%) in the first 12 months of the study period and 1 (0.6%) in the final 12 months of the study period. Infection and wound complications were the most common causes of reoperation at 1.8% for all cases (20 hips). Higher rates of adverse events are associated with early procedures (n ≤ 15) for all surgeons but showed no statistically significant impact on 5-year survival rate. CONCLUSION: Our experience demonstrates that AA-THA can be introduced into practice with an acceptable adverse event rate when compared with other approaches to THA. As expected the incidence of adverse events is higher in the early part of the learning curve. Surgeon mentoring in the first 20 cases should be considered to minimize risk of adverse events. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III.

Is Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome Relevant to Pulmonary Complications and Mortality in Multiply Injured Children?

BACKGROUND: Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is a well-recognized phenomenon in adult trauma populations. The "initial hit" of the traumatic event is often coupled with a systemic immune response characterized by changes in vital signs and laboratory indicators. A "second hit" from surgery during this time frame often results in acute lung injury, along with deterioration of the patient's clinical condition. We hypothesized that children and adolescents would experience SIRS physiology, but would not experience adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or "second hit" related death to the extent seen in the adult populations. METHODS: We queried the trauma database of our level 1 pediatric trauma center from January 2005 to December 2015 for patients with injury severity scores of >16. We used the electronic medical record to track SIRS criteria in patients days 1 to 4 posttrauma. Trends were examined in patients with an orthopaedic injury (OI) and with no orthopaedic injury. Patients were further subcategorized and analyzed by age group based on the convention for definition of pediatric SIRS. Patients in the orthopaedic cohort were further examined for pulmonary complications and death. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for SIRS physiology in the first 4 days of hospitalization. RESULTS: 81.4% (OI) and 69.1% no orthopaedic injury reached the threshold for SIRS within their first 4 days of hospitalization. Nine patients died in the hospital. Only 3 OI patients developed the criteria for ARDS, and only 3 patients with orthopaedic injuries died, 2 died within 24 hours of presentation and 1 within 48 hours, all had severe brain trauma. Increasing age groups showed increasing proportion of patients with SIRS. Increasing injury severity score and increasing age were independent predictors of SIRS during days 1 to 4. DISCUSSION: SIRS seems to be as common in children as the reported rates for adults, and the proportion of SIRS in children increases with increasing age and injury severity. The high mortality rate and rate of ARDS observed in adults was not observed in our cohort. The presence or absence of major orthopaedic injuries was not a significant predictor. The SIRS response in polytraumatized children is poorly understood. The clinical phenomenon of acute lung injury/ARDS is observed less often in children, but the exact mechanism by which this occurs is unknown. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III-case control.

Combined open reduction and Dega transiliac osteotomy for developmental dysplasia of the hip in walking children.

The iliac osteotomy described by Dega in Poland, in 1969, is an acetabuloplasty that changes the acetabular configuration and its inclination. The aim of this work is to analyze a group of patients with DDH treated by combined open reduction and Dega transiliac osteotomy ,to evaluate the results and determine the advantages and disadvantages, as well as, assess the factors affecting the final outcome of such procedure. A prospective study was conducted during the period, from November 2010 to October 2014, on 39 hips, in 29 children, with neglected DDH after walking age, either diagnosed late or after failure to respond to previous non operative treatment. The mean age at the time of surgery was 27.6 months ranging from 18 to 48 months. All hips were followed up clinically and radiologically for a mean period of 33.6 months (range from 18 to 48 months). No patient was lost to follow up. At the end of follow up, satisfactory final clinical results were obtained in 34 hips (87.2%) and unsatisfactory in 5 (12.8%) according to McKay's criteria. Radiologically, satisfactory results were obtained in 32 hips (82.1%) and unsatisfactory in seven (17.9%), according to Severin's criteria. In conclusion, the results of our series show open reduction combined with Dega transiliac osteotomy to be a safe and efficient method for the surgical treatment of DDH in selected patients, and can easily and safely be combined with associated procedures for single stage correction of acetabular dysplasia.

Patellar tracking should be taken into account when measuring radiographic parameters for recurrent patellar instability.

PURPOSE: To date, many radiographic parameters on patellar instability have their measurements taken statically, and have not been studied in various degrees of flexion according to the patellar tracking. There are also limited data regarding the use of these parameters in predicting recurrent patellar dislocation. The current study aims to review the radiographic parameters of the patellofemoral joint in different degrees of knee flexion and to correlate them with the presence of recurrent instability. METHODS: A 10-year retrospective study was conducted on all patients who had computed tomography patellar-tracking scan done for patellar instability when aged 18 years or younger. The computed tomography patellar-tracking scans were performed with the knee in extension, 10° flexion, and 20° flexion. The axial radiographic parameters were evaluated at the patellar equator, roman arch, and distal patellar pole. Sagittal and coronal parameters were noted. Radiographic parameters were then correlated with recurrent patellar instability. RESULTS: The femoral sulcus angle and trochlear groove depth at the distal patellar pole in 10° knee flexion (p value 0.04 and 0.03, respectively) and patellar equator in 20° knee flexion (p value 0.02 and 0.03, respectively) had the most significant clinical correlations with recurrent instability on multivariate analysis. Other radiographic parameters found to have significant clinical correlation on univariate analysis include the patellar tilt angle, congruence angle, femoral sulcus angle, trochlear groove depth, and Wiberg's classification. CONCLUSIONS: As per the knee dynamics, axial radiographic parameters had the most significant correlation with recurrent patellar instability when measured at the distal patellar pole in 10° knee flexion and at the patellar equator in 20° knee flexion. Future axial radiographic evaluation of patellofemoral instability should then be performed at these degrees of knee flexion and axial cuts. Trochlear dysplasia, as measured by the femoral sulcus angle and trochlear groove depth, was the most significant predictor of recurrent patellar instability in the skeletally immature. Wiberg's classification was also a novel factor found to have clinical correlation with patellofemoral instability. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Left atrium in cardiac resynchronization therapy: Active participant or innocent bystander.

BACKGROUND: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established treatment for patients with advanced heart failure that results in improvement of left ventricle (LV) systolic function and LV reverse remodeling. This may have a positive effect on the size and the function of the left atrium (LA). We assessed the LA function, dimensions, and volumes before and after CRT implantation. METHODS: A total of 37 patients with mean age of 55.3 ± 9.64 years including 11 (29.7%) females, having symptomatic heart failure [ejection fraction (EF) <35%, left bundle branch block >120 ms, with New York Heart Association III or ambulatory class IV] were enrolled, and underwent CRT implantation. M-mode, two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography, tissue Doppler imaging, and 2D strain (ɛ) imaging were done assessing LV volumes, ejection fraction, and diastolic function, LA diameter, area, maximal and minimal volumes, LA EF, and longitudinal strain (ɛ). Patients were reassessed after 3 months. A reduction in LV end-systolic volume of ≥10% was defined as volumetric responders to CRT. Patients with decompensated New York Heart Association class IV, sustained atrial arrhythmias, rheumatic or congenital heart diseases, nonleft bundle branch block, and those who were poorly echogenic, were excluded. RESULTS: Twenty-four (64.8%) patients were volumetric responders (group A). Both groups were matched regarding demographic, clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic criteria apart from the LA dimension and volumes which were significantly lower in the responders group prior to CRT. At the end of the follow-up, only the responders group had further significant reduction in LA diameter (41.6 ± 1.67 vs. 43.88 ± 1.82 mm, p < 0.01), maximal volume (62.2 ± 18.3 vs. 73.04 ± 21.78 ml, p < 0.01), minimal volume (32.6 ± 12.3 vs. 41.8 ± 13.97, p < 0.01), together with a significant increase in LA EF (48.3 ± 11.3 vs. 41.99 ± 13.9, p < 0.01), positive longitudinal strain (16.59% ± 5.89 vs. 12.45% ± 6.12, p < 0.01), and negative longitudinal strain (-3.3 ± 1.9 vs. -1.62 ± 1.2, p < 0.01) compared to baseline readings, a finding that was not present in the nonresponders group. In addition, atrial fibrillation was significantly higher in the nonresponders group. Baseline LA diameter and volumes were found to be independent predictors of response to CRT by multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: CRT induces LA anatomic, electrical, and structural reverse remodeling that could be assessed by conventional 2D echocardiography and 2D (ɛ) strain imaging. LA dimension and volumes were independent predictors of response to CRT and can help in selection of candidates for it.

Unsuspected osteochondroma-like outgrowths in the cranial base of Hereditary Multiple Exostoses patients and modeling and treatment with a BMP antagonist in mice.

Hereditary Multiple Exostoses (HME) is a rare pediatric disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the genes encoding the heparan sulfate (HS)-synthesizing enzymes EXT1 or EXT2. HME is characterized by formation of cartilaginous outgrowths-called osteochondromas- next to the growth plates of many axial and appendicular skeletal elements. Surprisingly, it is not known whether such tumors also form in endochondral elements of the craniofacial skeleton. Here, we carried out a retrospective analysis of cervical spine MRI and CT scans from 50 consecutive HME patients that included cranial skeletal images. Interestingly, nearly half of the patients displayed moderate defects or osteochondroma-like outgrowths in the cranial base and specifically in the clivus. In good correlation, osteochondromas developed in the cranial base of mutant Ext1f/f;Col2-CreER or Ext1f/f;Aggrecan-CreER mouse models of HME along the synchondrosis growth plates. Osteochondroma formation was preceded by phenotypic alteration of cells at the chondro-perichondrial boundary and was accompanied by ectopic expression of major cartilage matrix genes -collagen 2 and collagen X- within the growing ectopic masses. Because chondrogenesis requires bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling, we asked whether osteochondroma formation could be blocked by a BMP signaling antagonist. Systemic administration with LDN-193189 effectively inhibited osteochondroma growth in conditional Ext1-mutant mice. In vitro studies with mouse embryo chondrogenic cells clarified the mechanisms of LDN-193189 action that turned out to include decreases in canonical BMP signaling pSMAD1/5/8 effectors but interestingly, concurrent increases in such anti-chondrogenic mechanisms as pERK1/2 and Chordin, Fgf9 and Fgf18 expression. Our study is the first to reveal that the cranial base can be affected in patients with HME and that osteochondroma formation is amenable to therapeutic drug intervention.

A Contemporary Definition of Hip Dysplasia and Structural Instability: Toward a Comprehensive Classification for Acetabular Dysplasia.

Hip dysplasia has long been known to be a risk factor for pain and degenerative changes in the hip joint. The diagnosis of dysplasia has historically been based on assessments of acetabular anatomy on the anteroposterior pelvic radiograph, most commonly the lateral center-edge angle. Recent advances in imaging of the dysplastic hip with computerized tomography scans have demonstrated that hip dysplasia is in fact a 3-dimensional (D) deformity of the acetabulum and that multiple patterns of hip instability exist that may not be completely assessed on 2D imaging. A more thorough understanding of acetabular anatomy permits an evolution away from vague terms such as "borderline dysplasia." A 3D assessment of the acetabulum and the resultant patterns of instability may be more appropriate since this would allow more accurate treatment to correct the structural instability with acetabular reorientation. With this information, we propose a diagnostic framework that groups symptomatic dysplastic hips into one of 3 categories based on the primary direction of instability: (1) anterior, (2) posterior, and (3) global. This framework may aid the clinician in developing a differential diagnosis for the assessment of hip pain and suspected instability, and for planning an appropriate surgical management.

The Use of a Simple Dynamic External Fixator for the Treatment of Volar Fracture Subluxation of Proximal Interphalangeal Joints of the Fingers.

Volar fracture dislocation is very uncommon, with few series reported in the literature. Patients with such injuries were treated by modified dynamic external fixators. The mean follow-up was 18 months (range, 6 to 92 mo). The mean range of interphalangeal (proximal interphalangeal) joints and distal interphalangeal joints were 90 and 74 degrees, respectively. The total active range of motion (TAM) was excellent (256 degrees). The mean quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand score was 1.2. The advantages of our external fixators are that they are simple, cheap, adjustable, and allow immediate range of motion.

The accessory soleus muscle as a cause of persistent equinus in clubfeet treated by the Ponseti method : A report of 16 cases.

Encountering an accessory soleus muscle in children undergoing surgical release for clubfeet is not a frequent occurrence and only a few reports could be traced in literature. The purpose of this study is to report a series of 20 observations in 16 patients with idiopathic clubfeet treated by the Ponseti technique where the accessory soleus muscle was responsible in preventing full ankle dorsiflexion after Achilles tendon tenotomy. Following its division, adequate dorsiflexion could be achieved. To our knowledge this is the largest series published to date on this topic. In addition, we discuss the frequency and epidemiology, as well as the anatomy of the accessory soleus muscle, its innervation and embryology. The mean age at presentation was 40.7 days (range : 6 to 210 days). The accessory soleus tendon was observed in 6 right and 6 left feet, 4 feet had bilateral involvement. The average ankle dorsiflexion after complete tendo Achilles tenotomy was 2.50 (SD: 638), and after sectioning of the accessory soleus tendon, it was 19.50 (SD: 559) (p < 0.001). Correction was obtained in all patients, after 3 to 10 casts. In conclusion, the recognition of an accessory soleus muscle, in patients with clubfeet, is important, and its release is necessary to fully correct the deformity. Failure to recognize this muscle may lead to persistent hindfoot deformity.

The Mansoura experience in the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot deformity using the Ponseti technique.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate prospectively the results of the Ponseti technique in the treatment of congenital idiopathic clubfoot, to assess the factors that influenced the results and to report the complications that occurred. Seventy one congenital idiopathic clubfeet in 45 patients were treated with serial casting performed at weekly intervals, as described by Ponseti. The mean age at presentation was 64.6 days (range: 3 to 346 days). The average follow-up period was 26.3 months (range: 24-29 months). The results were considered good when there was no residual equinus in the hindfoot, a clear valgus position of the calcaneus, no residual internal rotation in the hindfoot and a fully restorable adduction of the forefoot by slight pressure on the medial side of the first metatarsal. A residual deformity of one of these criteria was considered to be a failure and resulted in a decision for operative treatment. Correction was obtained in 43 patients (95.5%), with 2 to 10 casts, with minimal complications. In conclusion, the Ponseti method is a very safe, efficient treatment for correction of clubfeet that radically decreases the need for extensive surgery.