title: Versatility of Taylor Spatial Frame in Gustilo-Anderson III C femoral fractures: report of three cases.
abstract: Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) combines a multiplanar external fixator and software accuracy for reduction of acute long-bone fractures. The frame gives stability, soft-tissue preservation, adjustability and functionality allowing bone to realize its full osteogenic potential. Three patients with multiple injuries and femoral Gustilo-Anderson type III C have been treated in our center. Initial surgery was performed within 6 h of injury with help of vascular surgeon. We used TSF as definitive fixation method. The results were assessed using the functional and radiological scoring system described by Paley and Maar. Fracture union occurred in all limbs and average fixation time was 151.6 days. All three patients had excellent outcome in terms of bony and functional ASAMI criteria. The TSF is a valuable tool. It is a definitive method of femoral Gustilo-Anderson type III C fracture care using external fixation with several advantages over previously used devices.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, Niguarda Hospital, Paolo Giovio 45, Milan, Italy. frasala@tiscali.it
authors.forename: Francesco
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Sala
authors.forename: Walter
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Albisetti
authors.forename: Dario
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Capitani
mesh_terms: D000063:Accidents, Traffic; D000328:Adult; D004867:Equipment Design; D016267:External Fixators; D005263:Femoral Artery / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery; D005264:Femoral Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D018460:Fractures, Comminuted; D005597:Fractures, Open; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009104:Multiple Trauma; D019857:Osteogenesis, Distraction / Q000295:instrumentation*; D010027:Osteotomy; D011150:Popliteal Artery / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery; D015607:Stents; D016896:Treatment Outcome