Soft-tissue operations in neuromuscular foot deformities

The management of neuromuscular foot deformities in children and adolescent s must be individualized because of differences in etiology and pathomechan ics. If conservative treatment fails or reaches a plateau early soft tissue procedures are recommended. Treatment should focus not only at correction of the deformity but also at reestablishment of muscular balance. Early pos toperative mobilisation is usually possible provided adequate orthotic cont rol is maintained. Regular clinical follow-ups help to minimize postoperati ve problems. The general aim should be an optimization of functions and onl y rarely to achieve a normal foot. The basic principles of management can b e described as correction of deformity, stabilization of unstable joints an d balance of muscle power.