Flatfoot (Pes Planus) Surgery

Clubfoot, or congenital talipes equinovarus, is a foot deformity where a baby’s foot is twisted out of shape, often so severely that the bottom of the foot faces sideways or even upward. It is one of the most common congenital (present at birth) foot deformities. While clubfoot is not painful during infancy, untreated cases can lead to lifelong difficulties in walking and mobility. Surgery is performed when non-invasive methods, like casting, ponseti method, or bracing, fail or when the deformity recurs. Surgery corrects the position of the foot by lengthening tendons, releasing tight ligaments, and repositioning bones to create a more natural foot structure. The goal is to create a functional, pain-free foot, where the child can participate in physical activities and live active, healthy lives, with minimal evidence of the condition.

Clubfoot occurs when the tendons connecting leg muscles to foot bones are short and tight, twisting the foot inward. It can be detected at birth or during a prenatal ultrasound. About half of all cases affect both feet, boys are twice as likely to develop the condition. Clubfoot can vary in severity but the general appearance includes an inward-turned foot, a deep crease on the sole, and thinner, underdeveloped calf muscles. Clubfoot is categorised into two primary types: Isolated (idiopathic) and non-isolated. Isolated is the most common form, found in children with no other medical conditions. Non-isolated on the other hand is linked to conditions like spina bifida or neuromuscular disorders, requiring prolonged or multiple treatments.

In the advanced cases of clubfoot, significant challenges are observed such as walking on the foot’s edge, painful calluses, difficulty wearing shoes, and lifelong discomfort. With timely treatment, children born with isolated clubfoot can live normal, physically active lives.

Eligible candidates for clubfoot surgery are primarily infants who have severe clubfoot deformities that cannot be corrected with nonsurgical methods such as stretching, casting, or the Ponseti method. Surgery is often considered when the condition does not respond to conservative treatments or when there is a recurrence of the deformity after initial correction. In some cases, surgery may be recommended in infants with complex or rigid clubfoot deformities, or if the deformity causes functional problems that affect the child’s ability to walk or develop normally. The decision for surgery is typically made after thorough evaluation by a pediatric orthopedic specialist.

Clubfoot surgery targets specific tendons and joints that contribute to the deformity. The surgery performed can be either through Achilles tendon lengthening procedure or a tendon transfer surgery.

Achilles tendon lengthening procedure aims to restore balance in muscle function by redirecting the force of a functioning tendon to compensate for a weakened or absent one. Tibialis anterior tendon transfer can prevent recurrence of deformity and enhance dorsiflexion.

Clubfoot surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. Achilles tendon lengthening takes about an hour while tendon transfer surgery takes about 90 minutes.

• Stabilizing pins and a long-leg cast secure the foot during healing.
• To prevent the muscles from reverting to a clubfoot position, braces or special shoes are used for up to a year post surgery.
• Pain management is a key part of the recovery process. The medical team will prescribe pain relievers to ensure the child remains comfortable during recovery.
• Physical therapy will be recommended to help restore flexibility, strength, and mobility in the affected foot and ankle. This also aids in preventing complications like stiffness.
• Limited mobility is expected immediately following surgery, with the child requiring rest and proper care to avoid putting pressure on the healing foot.

• After the surgical correction of clubfoot, the foot is stabilized with pins and a long-leg cast for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the soft tissue to heal. Following this, the pins and cast are removed, and a short-leg cast is applied for another 4 weeks.
• Post-surgery, special shoes or braces will be used for up to a year to prevent relapse. Close monitoring for any signs of recurrence is essential to prevent the deformity from reappearing.
• As Prospero Medical, we prioritize the long-term well-being of our patients, which is why we conduct regular follow-ups for up to 6 months to 1 year after surgery, even after they return to their home countries. This allows us to closely track their recovery and address any concerns that may arise during the post-operative period.
• It is crucial for patients to report any issues or complications directly to our clinic without delay, before consulting any third-party specialists. By doing so, we can ensure that any potential problems are addressed promptly and effectively, ensuring the best possible recovery outcome.

Turkey isn’t just famous for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and renowned hospitality; it’s also one of the best countries for top-notch medical care. With its advanced medical technology and skilled professionals, Turkey is a global leader in various healthcare fields. Clubfoot surgical treatment in Turkey has become a popular choice for many, as the country offers several benefits that might even outweigh those found in private clinics at home. These include:

• High level of medical expertise, backed by established scholarship
• Leading private hospitals with cutting-edge, high-precision technology
• Personalized after-care, enhanced by the warmth of Turkish hospitality
• Competitive, value-for-money pricing for world-class treatments
• Comprehensive recovery options, including orthopedic treatment packages paired with physiotherapy to accelerate the healing process

Amid the flood of commercial advertisements and social media marketing, finding the right clinic for your surgery can feel overwhelming. To guide your decision-making, focus on clinics with these crucial factors:

• Offering honest, transparent medical advice free from commercial interests, ensuring patients receive the best guidance for their needs
• Making a concerted effort to build a trusting rapport with patients, listening to their concerns with genuine empathy to better manage their expectations
• Putting the patient’s safety and well-being at the forefront, ensuring that their care is always the top priority throughout their treatment journey.

To ensure a realistic price estimate for your treatment, consider these factors:

• The clinic’s professional standing, which reflects its reputation for providing quality care
• The nature and complexity of the surgical procedure, as more intricate operations may carry higher costs.
• The surgeon’s credentials and experience, as well as the quality and comprehensiveness of the after-care services offered.
• The clinic’s terms and conditions, where clinical liabilities should be transparently outlined in the appropriate legal format, ensuring clarity and fairness in your agreement.

Taking these factors into account will provide a clearer picture of what to expect financially for clubfoot surgical treatment. While seeking affordable treatment abroad is common, prioritizing cost over quality can lead to significant complications and higher long-term expenses. At Prospero Medical, we are committed to transparency in our pricing. Each service component is clearly outlined, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their treatment. Our pricing reflects the quality of care provided, with highly qualified surgeons, professional medical guidance, and extensive industry experience. We also prioritize top-tier after-care, ensuring that the overall treatment experience matches the realistic pricing we offer, so our patients can trust they’re receiving both value and the best possible medical care.