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TAYLOR SPATIAL FRAMESNTM

External Fixator


Your Well-Being

Smith & Nephew

Although you will have a great deal of support available during the process, you are your own strongest support system. Your most important job is to take care of yourself. 

 

Wearing an external fixator can be stressful. Keep these factors in mind while you’re going through the process:

  • Know that the discomfort associated with wearing an external fixator is usually mild.
  • Anticipate early mobility.
  • Keep a good attitude and a sense of humor.
  • Keep thinking about the vastly improved quality of life you will have at the end of your treatment.
  • Actively participate in your care.
  • Normal activities of daily living may be more time consuming so allow enough time for these activities to avoid frustration.
  • Keep active. Go to the movies, go out to eat, attend football and baseball games, and visit with family and friends. 1
  • Keep your mind busy by reading books, listening to music, exercising, relaxing, crossword puzzles, etc. 1

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Smith & Nephew

Attention to nutrition is an important way to ensure the speedy healing of new bone. Plus you need to keep the rest of your body in good shape for the extra physical demands. A well-balanced diet with adequate protein, minerals and vitamins is needed for healthy tissue and wound healing. 

A dietician can instruct you and your family about diet and can answer general nutrition questions. Your surgeon may prescribe calcium supplements.

 

Avoid drinking sodas and other drinks which contain excessive phosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid may decrease the amount of calcium the body absorbs.


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Smith & Nephew

If the external device will be on your leg(s), you may have to use crutches for a period of time. When walking with crutches, you do not want any extra body weight because it will make you tired faster, leading to a decreased amount of exercise. Your surgeon may suggest a weight-control diet to help you achieve and maintain your ideal weight.

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Smith & Nephew

Avoid smoking and avoid second-hand smoke. The nicotine in cigarettes interferes with bone formation and harms the body’s ability to heal. Nicotine patches cannot be worn because they produce the same bad effect.2 Your surgeon may perform blood tests to ensure that there is no nicotine in your body prior to surgery. Talk with your surgeon about smoking cessation programs and/or medications if you need help to stop smoking before your surgery.
 

References
1 Haines, Dale (Slim). The ILIZAROV™™ & External Fixator Wearer’s Support Group. Clothing Modifications, 1-2. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise, 1-2. Footwear, 1. ILIZAROV™ hints, tips and advice, 2, 4, 7. www.ILIZAROV™.org.uk.

 

2 Schwartsman, Vladimir, M.D. “What One Should Know About the ILIZAROV™ Method,” The ILIZAROV™ Method, http://www.lasvegasortho.com/ILIZAROV™.htm, August 2000.


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