CTEV

 

CTEV (Congenital Talipes Equinovarus)

Pediatric Orthopedics: NEET PG High-Yield

1. Deformity Components (CAVE)

The hallmark of Clubfoot is the CAVE deformity:

  • Cavus (high arch)
  • Adductus (forefoot adduction)
  • Varus (hindfoot varus)
  • Equinus (plantarflexion)

2. High-Yield Exam Facts

Category High-Yield Detail
TreatmentThe The  Ponseti Method is the Gold Standard. Involves serial casting followed by maintenance bracing (Dennis Browne splint).
Procedure Percutaneous Achilles tenotomy is required in >90% of cases to correct the final equinus deformity.
Classification Pirani Score is the most common tool used to monitor progress during the Ponseti method.

3. NEET PG Pearls

  • Etiology: Mostly idiopathic, but can be associated with syndromes like Arthrogryposis or Spina Bifida.
  • Important Rule: Never correct the Equinus deformity *before* the Varus, as it creates a “rocker-bottom” foot.
  • Recurrence: The most common cause of recurrence is non-compliance with the foot abduction brace (Dennis Browne splint).
  • Radiology: In a true clubfoot, the talocalcaneal angle on AP/Lateral view is decreased (parallel).