Multiplanar Deformities Correction Using Taylor Spatial Frame in Skeletally Immature Patients

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Biomechanical engineering

Background:

• The Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) is an advanced external fixator capable of correcting multiplanar deformities.
• Limited data exists on TSF application in pediatric patients with open physes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the TSF in correcting complex, multiplanar lower limb deformities in children and adolescents with open physes.
• To assess the complication profile associated with TSF use in this pediatric population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 51 pediatric patients (mean age 12.4 years) with open physes and at least two lower limb deformities.
• 55 osteotomies were performed, with patients categorized into groups based on deformity type (post-traumatic malunion, tibia vara, rickets, miscellaneous).
• Correction aimed for population-average limb parameters and normal mechanical axis deviation.

Main Results:

• The correction goal was achieved in all but one patient.
• Four patients experienced recurrence and required re-operation.
• Common complications included pin tract infections (20 patients), delayed union (2), and post-removal fractures (2).

Conclusions:

• The Taylor Spatial Frame facilitates accurate correction of complex limb deformities in pediatric patients with open physes.
• TSF treatment in this cohort was associated with a relatively low rate of serious complications.