Sonographic assessment of clubfoot deformity in young children.

Abstract

We report a new diagnostic imaging technique for talipes equinovarus. Sonographic assessment of the medial border of the foot offers insight into the center of tarsal malalignment at the talonavicular joint. Technique, observations, and interpretation of the findings are delineated and compared with current radiologic evaluation of talonavicular alignment according to the method of Simons in 38 cases. The TnCE-angle is introduced as a sonographic measure to quantify talonavicular malalignment in clubfeet. Sonographic results of clubfeet are compared with those of a group of 98 normal feet. The practical implications of the method as a means for planning and control of treatment in clubfoot deformity are discussed.