Early and late initiation of the Ponseti method yield comparable outcomes in congenital idiopathic clubfoot: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Key Points

• To determine if early versus late initiation of the Ponseti method leads to different outcomes in treating congenital idiopathic clubfoot.
• Conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing studies
• Analyzed outcomes related to relapse and tenotomy rates based on initiation timing
• Examined treatment variability and suggested the need for standardized protocols
• No significant difference in relapse rates between early and late initiation of the Ponseti method
• Tenotomy rates were comparable regardless of treatment initiation timing
• Flexibility in clinical practice is supported by findings, indicating initiation after four weeks is effective