Final answer:
Percutaneous heel cord tenotomy in the treatment of clubfoot is usually performed around 3 to 6 months of age, after initial stretching and casting that begins in the first 2 weeks after birth and is part of the later stages of treatment if necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The corrective procedure known as percutaneous heel cord tenotomy is typically performed in one of the later stages of clubfoot treatment, which generally follows several weeks of casting. This procedure can be undertaken usually around 3 to 6 months of age, depending on the individual case and the severity of the clubfoot. During the initial treatment phase, corrective casting begins in the first 2 weeks after birth and is repeated weekly. This non-surgical approach, utilizing the stretching and casting method, has proven effective in about 90 percent of clubfoot cases. When this treatment is not sufficient to correct the deformity, a percutaneous heel cord tenotomy may be necessary to lengthen the Achilles tendon. This helps in achieving the desired foot position before applying the final corrective cast, which remains in place for several weeks to allow for proper healing.
In summary, the clubfoot condition, also known as talipes, creates a situation where a child's foot is twisted inward at a sharp angle, which can lead to impaired walking ability if not treated early. While most clubfoot cases are treated without surgery, percutaneous heel cord tenotomy is a minimally invasive procedure that may be required in more severe cases.