The deformity correction and fixator-assisted treatment using Ilizarov versus Taylor spatial frame in the foot and ankle

Abstract

This study was to report the comparison of outcomes between Ilizarov ring fixator (IRF) and Taylor Spatial Frame® (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, Tenn.; TSF) in terms of the effectiveness of ankle-foot deformities correction, follow-up results, and complications. Fourteen patients with ankle-foot deformities were corrected using circular external fixation (IRF group = 7 patients; TSF group = 7 patients) and related procedures. Baseline data and treatment variables were recorded. The patients’ mean age was 42.9 years. Mean follow-up time was 6.5 months. Most common cause of deformity/traumatic condition was posttraumatic equinus. There were successful results in 8 patients (57.1%), partial successful results in 5 patients (35.7%), and revision-needed in 1 patient (7.1%). TSF group demonstrated significantly higher rate of successful results than IRF group (P=0.033). A trend of lower complication rate was found in TSF group (P=0.286). Deformity corrections using TSF provided significantly better clinical scores and higher rate of successful outcome than conventional IRF.