Correction of Ankle Ankylosis with Deformity Using the Taylor Spatial Frame: A Report of Three Cases

Abstract

Ankle ankylosis, such as that caused by failed ankle fusion, fixed ankle from trauma, bone tumor, and stiff contracture, is associated with pain, limb-length discrepancy, and deformity. The Ilizarov external fixator has been used to treat these challenging problems.2,3,6,8,10 However, the Ilizarov external fixator requires surgeons to master special skills and is difficult to handle. Recently, a new type of external fixator called the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF; Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN) has been increasing in popularity as an alternative to the Ilizarov external fixator.1,4,5 The TSF has two rings and six struts that are expandable. It can correct every deformity simultaneously: angulation, translation, rotation, elongation, and shortening. The TSF is supported with software available on a web site (https://www.spatialframe.com/) to analyze the deformity parameters of interest. To treat a deformity with the TSF, one must determine the frame parameters: proximal and distal ring diameters and neutral strut length or frame height. The deformity parameters should then be determined. By inputting these parameters into the software, spatial displacements and transformations are analyzed and a prescription is printed. The TSF can correct various deformities and shortening more accurately and easily than the Ilizarov external fixator. However, there have been only a few reports published regarding the application of the TSF to ankle and foot problems.11,12 We report three patients in whom ankle ankylosis with deformity was corrected using the TSF and following procedure.