Outcomes of Primary Fusion vs. Reconstruction of Pediatric Cavus Foot in Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, the most common hereditary peripheral neuropathy, often causes cavovarus foot deformity in children. Surgical interventions to correct deformity or improve function can involve either primary fusion or reconstruction. However, the optimal surgical approach remains contested. This systematic review aims to present and evaluate existing data on both fusion and reconstruction surgical interventions in treating pediatric CMT cavus foot. Methods: A PRISMA-guided search of five electronic databases was conducted (from inception to 17 February 2025). Studies were eligible if they reported surgical outcomes for CMT pediatric patients (≤18 years) with cavovarus foot treated by primary fusion or reconstruction. Titles, abstracts and full texts were screened by four independent reviewers, and data were extracted on patient demographics, procedures, follow-up, functional scores, radiographic correction and complications. Results: Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria, encompassing 169 patients and 276 feet, with a mean age at surgery of ~13.5 years. Nine studies evaluated joint-sparing reconstruction, three assessed primary fusion, and two combined both reconstruction and fusion. Both interventions yielded improved outcomes post-operatively. Reconstruction generally produced high patient satisfaction and near-normal radiographic parameters but carried recurrence or reoperation rates of 10–40%. Fusion provided durable correction of rigid deformities but was associated with nonunion, adjacent joint arthritis and higher revision rates. Conclusions: Joint-sparing reconstruction is an effective first-line approach for flexible cavovarus deformities in pediatric CMT patients, while fusion should be reserved for severe, rigid or recurrent cases. A patient-specific staged approach is recommended, and higher-quality comparative studies are needed to refine surgical decision-making.

Affiliated Institutions

• Western University CA
• University of Toronto CA
• McMaster University CA

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