Deformity correction with an external fixator: ease of use and accuracy?

The Taylor spatial frame (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, Tennessee) is a hexapod frame that differs from the well-known Ilizarov fixator in that it works in conjunction with special software programs and can simultaneously correct 6 axes of deformity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ease of use and accuracy of the Taylor spatial frame. We used the Taylor spatial frame with the older software, Version 2, and the newer Internet-based program, Version 3.1, to achieve our treatment goals in 29 cases. We herein report our results achieved by using the Taylor spatial frame to treat deformity and trauma of the lower limb from November 1999 through May 2005. The hybrid advanced technique of frame application with the use of wires and half-pins was applied in all cases. Included in this study were only those patients whose frames had been removed and whose final results were available. All patients were treated and followed by the senior author (Y.E.). We found that the Taylor spatial frame is easy to apply and that application can be accomplished quickly. The results were clinically and radiographically excellent in all cases at the time of final assessment, and the treatment goals were 100% successful. The only drawbacks we noted are that the Taylor spatial frame is more cumbersome than the conventional Ilizarov frame and the financial cost is comparatively high.