KAFO
Pronunciation: K-A-F-O (spelled out)
Also written as: KAFO — Knee–Ankle–Foot Orthosis
Acronym for Knee–Ankle–Foot Orthosis; an orthotic device extending from the thigh to the foot, used to control the knee, ankle, and foot simultaneously.
Full Definition
A Knee–Ankle–Foot Orthosis (KAFO) is a long-leg orthotic device that encompasses the knee, ankle, and foot to provide stability and alignment for patients with conditions such as paraplegia, muscular dystrophy, or post-polio syndrome. It extends the functional scope of an AFO by adding knee-joint control components. Editors should note that 'KAFO' is written in all capitals without periods, and the expanded form uses en dashes between anatomical segments. Confusing KAFO with AFO in clinical documentation can have patient-safety implications.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalise all letters. Spell out in full on first use. Distinguish carefully from AFO (does not include knee control) and HKAFO (includes hip control).
In Context
- "The rehabilitation team recommended a KAFO with a locked knee joint to enable ambulation following the spinal cord injury." — Inpatient rehabilitation discharge summary
- "When editing clinical notes, verify that AFO has not been used where KAFO is clinically appropriate." — Editorial quality-control checklist