EVA brace for treatment of congenital clubfoot in newborns

Abstract

Introduction

Congenital clubfoot (CC) is an orthopedic deformity characterized by congenital dysplasia of musculoskeletal structures such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, osteoarticular and neurovascular structures, of multifactorial and idiopathic origin.

Objective

Offer early intervention for the treatment of congenital clubfoot in newborns, using ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) to produce braces in the neonatal period.

Method

Intervention was performed in newborns of both sexes, with gestational age >37 weeks, diagnosed with flexible congenital clubfoot. The braces were manufactured with 4 mm-thick EVA, Velcro and hot glue, using flat irons and scissors.

Results

Fifteen newborns were included in the study, with bilateral CC and 32 braces. An average of 20 cm² of EVA was used for each brace and none of the newborns developed pressure sores. Braces were worn initially for 18 hours and no family member expressed any complaint or difficulty in handling the device at home, reporting complete satisfaction. After 60 days of treatment, all the infants in the follow-up achieved a score of 0 on the Pirani scale, but were monitored for a further 30 days because they did not exhibit symmetrical feet. Multivariate analysis revealed differences between assessments (p = 0.001), and in pair comparison, only a score of 30 after 60 days was similar (p = 0.45).

Conclusion

Rapid intervention, performed by a qualified professional using EVA braces, proved to be effective for conservative treatment of CC in newborns.

Keywords:
Orthotic Devices; Talipes/Congenital; Infant; Newborn