Ponseti treatment at RNOH
The RNOH offers comprehensive assessment and treatment for children with Congenital Talipes Equino Varus (CTEV) foot position, also known as Club Foot deformity. The Ponseti method of correction is the primary treatment of choice, and follows Professor Ponseti’s treatment protocol. The service at the RNOH has been well established over 10 years under the management of Ms Sally Tennant, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. The team has expanded to include an Extended Scope Physiotherapist specialised in CTEV management and skilled plaster technicians. We are now a busy service receiving referrals for two to three new babies every month.
Ante-natal counselling is offered following diagnosis at the 20 week gestation foetal anomaly scan, and treatment is usually started two to three weeks following delivery. Above knee plaster casts are applied on a weekly basis to manipulate and correct the foot position. Usually four to six weeks of casting are required prior to an Achilles tendon tenotomy operation which is performed in clinic under local anaesthetic. Following this, three further weeks of casting are needed and then a Foot Abduction Brace is fitted. This is worn for three months for 23 hours a day and then at night times and nap times for five years.
We expect the Ponseti method to result in normal levels of function and ability for children.
The Ponseti Team:
Ms Sally Tennant, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Ms Christine Douglas, Extended Scope Paediatric Physiotherapist
Key contacts
Penny Trustram, secretary to Ms Sally Tennant: tel. 020 3947 0046
Christine Douglas
Further reading:
Referrals
Please download the printable referral form and email to rnoh.