Unilateral versus bilateral clubfoot: an analysis of severity and correlation

J Pediatr Orthop B. 2014 Sep;23(5):397-9. doi: 10.1097/BPB.0000000000000064.

Abstract

This study compares the severity of unilateral and bilateral clubfoot, and the correlation between right and left feet of bilateral cases. Sixty-six unilateral and 75 bilateral clubfoot patients were assessed for severity using the Pirani score at an average age of 12.9 days (SD 9 days). In bilateral cases, the severity of right and left feet was highly correlated (r=0.68). The odds of being very severe were 2.6 (95% confidence interval 1.3-5.1) times higher in bilateral cases (P=0.007). Bilateral and unilateral clubfeet present with differing severity. Right and left feet from bilateral cases are highly correlated. Researchers need to address these issues during study design and analysis.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Australia / epidemiology
  • Clubfoot / epidemiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Severity of Illness Index