Modified partial talectomy followed by tibiotalocalcaneal fusion for neglected clubfoot: a case series and literature review

Clubfoot management is complicated, especially in severe cases. Various treatment methods have been introduced, and there is no consensus on the best surgical approach or the best fixation hardware. These case series aim to display the viability of this surgical procedure, despite the short-term follow-up. Three patients with neglected clubfoot were presented. All patients underwent one-stage deformity correction using partial talectomy followed by tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using a lateral plate. Two patients recovered uneventfully, and one patient needed another surgery because of fixation failure due to a lack of reinforcing fixation. Partial talectomy and tibiotalocalcaneal fusion is a viable option for the treatment of neglected clubfoot considering its various advantages, albeit some possible pitfalls that were also described. This study provided a basis for further studies involving a larger sample of patients and a longer follow-up period.