Purpose: Talipes equinus is a frequent deformity observed in patients with central nervous disease. The surgical strategy is based on an assessment of the spasticity and retraction elements in the deformity and the presence or not of antagonistic muscles. We propose a codified treatment strategy and present results obtained over the last two years.

Material and methods: All patients who underwent surgical treatment for central neurological talipes equinus between 1998 and 1999 were included in this study. All patients were seen by the orthopaedic surgeon and the physical education and rehabilitation physician at the preoperative consultation. Selective neuromotor nerve blocks completed the physical exam in order to assess spasticity and retractions (soleus, gastocnemius, flexor digitalis). Functional antagonistic or transferable muscles were identified. A function contract was established with the patient. All patients were operated on by the same surgeon and were reviewed late after surgery by an independent clinician. Gain in joint movement and function were recorded as well as any complications.

Results: Thirty-five patients underwent surgery (42 feet). The analytic results were good: mean gain in joint movement = 37.5°.

The functional objectives (walking for 31 patients, verticalisation for ten, comfort for one) were achieved in all patients except five. There was one taluseversus, one anterior subluxation of the talus, one persistent stepping. For two patients underlying neurological disorders did not allow fulfilment of the contract. There were also three cases of claw toes with moderate functional impact.

Discussion: Preponderant retraction makes it difficult to assess antagonistic and intrinsic muscles, leading to the complications observed. A dynamic EMG recording might provide a solution. Functional outcome depends on correct assessment of the underlying neurological status.

Conclusion: The good results achieved in this series of patients validates the proposed decisional algorithm. The surgical strategy must be inscribed within a functional contract established with each individual patient.