SUCCESSFUL SURGERY RESTORES “HEALTHY LEGS” FOR 06-MONTH-OLD PEDIATRIC PATIENT WITH CONGENITAL CLUBFOOT

Prof. PhD. Dr. René D. Esser – “golden hands” in orthopedic surgery has successfully treated the case of pediatric patient D.T.V, 6 months old (Hai Lang district, Quang Tri province) with congenital clubfoot deformity in both legs. This is one of the cases included in the free surgery program for musculoskeletal disorders in children from difficult circumstances, carried out by the American International Hospital (AIH) in collaboration with Prof. PhD. Dr. René D. Esser.

► Mr. D.T.P (37 years old) and Ms. N.T.H (33 years old), the parents of D.T.V, shared that throughout the pregnancy, they regularly went for prenatal check-ups and ultrasounds, but doctors did not detect any abnormalities. On the day of delivery, their joy of becoming parents suddenly turned into sorrow when doctor informed them that their son was born with congenital clubfoot in both legs. Baby’s arms also showed signs of abnormalities, with a possibility that baby would not be able to fully extend or flex them. The family was very shocked and surprised because their child was not born normal like other children. Shortly after, when the baby was just 7 days old, the family took him from Quang Tri to Hue Central Hospital for treatment, casting, and physical therapy when baby was 5 months old. However, over time, the family became worried about their baby’s slow progress; without surgery, baby’s legs would gradually retract, muscles would atrophy, and baby would be unable to walk. “The family has tried to inquire everywhere about surgery for our baby but no doctor dared to take on the case,” said D.T.V’s mother with tears.

Thanks to the connection from the volunteer group “Bạn thương nhau”, the parents met Dr. René D. Esser, a new hope opened up. After the examination, the X-ray results showed that D.T.V had clubfoot deformity in both legs (ankle and foot), and the left knee could not be fully extended. At the same time, the baby was also diagnosed with congenital deformity of the hands, with curved finger bones, unable to fully extend the wrist, accompanied by a partial dislocation.

►According to Prof. PhD. Dr. René D. Esser, since baby D.T.V is only 6 months old, the surgery needs to be considered carefully. In particular, the anesthesia process in pediatric surgery requires high standards not only regarding modern medical equipment but also concerning the expertise of the anesthesiologists, especially those with specialized experience in pediatric anesthesia. 

Fortunately, at the Department of Orthopedics of American International Hospital (AIH), there is not only a team of highly experienced doctors in treating congenital musculoskeletal conditions but also a smooth collaboration with professional anesthesiologists who have solid expertise in pediatric and neonatal anesthesia. This helps to effectively control potential factors that may arise and implement appropriate measures to ensure the highest safety for the pediatric patient throughout the surgical process. 

► After considering the treatment options and discussing with the family, Prof. PhD. Dr. René D. Esser proposed a surgical plan involving tendon lengthening, foot axis correction, and casting both lower limbs. “For now, I will perform orthopedic surgery on both legs so that the baby can recover quickly and start walking at the appropriate age. Surgery on both arms will be postponed for some time as the baby is still very young,” Dr. René explained. 

Thanks to the smooth and professional coordination of the doctors, the surgery was conducted safely and successfully.

►02 months after the surgery, the baby has completely removed the cast and the treatment results are very favorable. In the coming time, the baby will be able to walk and move like other children, which brings great joy to the family.

On the follow-up visit 02 months after surgery, D.T.V’s mother was emotional: “Our family is very happy and grateful to AIH hospital and Dr. René for successfully treating my son free of charge. Before coming to AIH, we did not think there would be a doctor willing to perform surgery on our child. And fortunately, the treatment we just went through has had a good outcome.

► With over 40 years of experience, Prof. PhD. Dr. René D. Esser is known as the “golden hand” in the field of orthopedic surgery and is one of the few orthopedic surgeons capable of treating congenital deformities and serious trauma conditions in Vietnam. Regarding his experience in treating clubfoot deformities, Prof. PhD. Dr. Esser has successfully performed over 500 cases both domestically and internationally. More than 300 cases have been reported in the renowned Clinical Orthopedics and Related Research journal in the United States. 

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