DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjs.2026.v12i04.001

Pages: 257-260

Background: Idiopathic clubfoot (congenital talipes equinovarus) is a prevalent pediatric orthopaedic deformity. The Ponseti method of serial casting is universally recognized as the gold standard for initial management. Following casting, a significant proportion of patients require a minor surgical intervention, most commonly a percutaneous Achilles tenotomy (ETA), to correct residual equinus. Aim: This study aims to retrospectively evaluate the management of idiopathic clubfoot at Queen Rania Children’s Hospital (QRCH), analyzing the relationship between patient laterality, the total number of corrective casts required, and the incidence of subsequent surgical interventions. Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted on 180 children diagnosed with idiopathic clubfoot who were managed at the institution between 2020 and 2025. Data regarding the total number of corrective casts and surgical interventions were extracted from the institutional Hakeem System. Results: Bilateral clubfoot was the most common presentation, accounting for 60% of cases. The mean number of serial casts required prior to equinus correction was 5.4. Overall, 82.2% of the cohort required an ETA. Bilateral cases demonstrated a higher propensity for requiring surgical intervention (87.0%) compared to unilateral cases (75.0%). Conclusion: The Ponseti method remains highly effective for correcting idiopathic clubfoot. Bilateral presentation is a reliable predictor of a slightly longer casting phase and a higher likelihood of requiring an ETA to achieve full anatomical correction.