Leg reconstruction replaces some operations and anesthesia. A new method used for the rare congenital clubfoot disease helps children with disabilities to stand on their feet. Treatment was brought to the Czech Republic by doctors from the Faculty Hospital in Brno (FN Brno).
Three-year-old Tonička has been suffering from the disease since birth, with two to three children born in the Czech Republic each year. During childbirth, it turns out that one leg bent. This is exactly how the congenital lower limb joint manifests itself. With the disease always affecting only one limb, children are often born with fractures. “Tonička broke her leg for the first time when she was sixteen months old. Since then, she has had to learn to walk several times because of a broken bone.” remember the mother of the young patient Martina Břinková.
Until recently, rare bone structural abnormalities were treated with surgery, which the patient had to perform twelve times during childhood, and a subsequent cast. However, doctors from the Department of Pediatric Surgery at Brno General Hospital adopted the Cross union method in America two years ago. Unlike previous procedures, which often ended in amputations or non-functioning limbs, the treatment was successful.
Doctor Karel Urbášek examines Tonička’s leg one year after surgery
In children, doctors insert implants into the bone, which grow with the patient and ensure stability of the foot. At the same time, the patient’s bone is joined with a graft taken by a healthcare professional from the hip bone. In young children, all bones from the inner half of the pelvis need to be removed. “This method is also revolutionary in that it can be used even on patients as young as two years old. Early surgery prevents secondary changes to the limbs, such as restriction of movement.” explained doctor Brno Karel Urbanek.
Children operate without restrictions
Little Antonie from Brno was the second patient to go to the local children’s hospital for the procedure. In order for the operated leg to function properly, it is still necessary to wear a special splint. However, her parents hope that Tonička, like little Mikuláš, who also arrived at the Brno doctor today for a check-up, will soon remove the splint and walk independently.
According to Urbášek, no serious problems have occurred after the operation in Brno or in America. This is a big difference from previous treatment methods, which were only 50 percent successful. Children can function as well as their peers thanks to operated implants. “Her daughter doesn’t have any handicap, compared to other kids, she’s probably just a little slower when moving,” Břínková describes the current situation.
This revolutionary surgery is appropriate for people of all ages who suffer from congenital clubfoot. “So far, we have operated on ten children in Brno. All of our patients recovered well within six weeks.” said Urbášek, adding that thanks to the procedure, the patient was able to integrate into life on time and not suffer from health problems and fractures.
Karel Urbášek also examined little Mikuláš, who no longer had to wear a splint
“Certified bacon geek. Evil social media fanatic. Music practitioner. Communicator.”
