The contribution of prenatal sonographic diagnosis of clubfoot to preventive medicine.

From 1995 through 1997, clubfoot was detected by transabdominal sonography in 13 fetuses of 12 women, in nine bilaterally and in four unilaterally (total, 22 clubfeet). The average menstrual age at diagnosis was 23.6 weeks (range, 17-36). Three fetuses had associated malformations: two were therapeutically aborted and one died 2 weeks after birth. Proper understanding of the significance of prenatal ultrasound findings of clubfoot will assist both the orthopaedist and the parents in reaching a decision concerning future management of their pregnancy.