# Surgical Correction of a Severe Bilateral Cleft Foot Using a Diamond Incision and Cannulated Screw Fixation: A Case Report and Literature Review

## TL;DR

A new surgical technique successfully corrected a severe cleft foot deformity, improving function and appearance.

## Contribution

A modified surgical technique using diamond incision and cannulated screws is introduced for cleft foot reconstruction.

## Key findings

- The patient achieved pain-free walking and standard footwear use after surgery.
- The technique provided satisfactory cosmetic results and functional improvement.
- Tailored surgical planning is emphasized for diverse cleft foot variants.

## Abstract

Cleft foot is a rare congenital deformity, characterized by the absence of one or more central rays of the foot and presenting with a wide spectrum of clinical and anatomical variations. Surgical intervention aims to improve this deformity on three levels: functional rehabilitation, cosmetic appearance, and the ability to wear standard footwear.

This case report describes the successful surgical management of a severe bilateral cleft foot (Blauth and Borisch Type III and Abraham Type II). The technique involved a diamond-shaped incision for cleft closure, cannulated screw fixation to narrow the forefoot, and correction of associated deformities. At one-year follow-up, the patient demonstrated pain-free ambulation, the ability to wear off-the-shelf standard footwear like peers, and satisfactory aesthetic results. This report highlights the importance of tailored surgical planning in managing the diverse variants of cleft foot and contributes to the growing literature by presenting a new, modified technique addressing its reconstructive challenges.