Taylor Spatial Frame
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The Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) is an external fixator and shares a number of components and features of the Ilizarov apparatus The TSF is a hexapod device based on a Stewart platform and was invented by Dr Charles Taylor. The device consists of two TSF rings made of aluminium connected together by 6 struts. Each strut can be independently lengthened or shortened. Connected to a bone by wires or half pins, the attached bone can be manipulated in 6 axes (anterior/posterior, varus/valgus, lengthen/shorten.) Both angular deformities and translational deformities can be corrected with the TSF.
It is used in both adults and children. It is used for the treatment of acute fractures, mal-unions, non uniona and congenital deformities. It can be used on both the upper and lower limbs. Specialised foot rings are also available for the treatment of complex foot deformities.
Once attached to the bone, the deformity is characterised by studying the postoperative x-rays. The angular and translational deformity values are then entered into specialised software along with paramaters such as the ring size and initial strut lengths. The software then produces a "prescription" of strut changes that the patient follows. The struts are adjusted every day by the patient. Typically, correction of the bone deformity will take 3-4 weeks. Once the deformity has been corrected, the frame is then left on the leg whilst the bone heals, typically this will take 3-6 months, depending on the nature and degree of deformity.
