How do you use halo traction?

How does halo-gravity traction work? A surgeon attaches a lightweight metal ring (halo) to the child’s skull with small pins. The number of pins depend on the child’s size; more pins are used for larger children. The pins go into the bone of the forehead to keep the child’s head from moving.

Is traction good for scoliosis?

Summary of background data: Prior studies have demonstrated that halo traction is a safe, well-tolerated method of applying gradual, sustained traction to maximize operative correction in patients with severe idiopathic scoliosis (IS) and kyphosis.

What is traction by gravity?

Halo gravity traction is a procedure used to reduce the degree of curvature in the spines of children with severe idiopathic or congenital scoliosis. Spinal traction is the gentle pulling of the soft tissue (joints and muscles) to help straighten the spine.

How do you use skull traction?

Skull Traction

1. Shave the hair above the ear region.
2. Local anaesthetic.
3. Avoid masseter.
4. Avoid Temporal artery.
5. Small incision above ear in line with auditory meatus.
6. Screw in pin until it just perforates outer table skull.
7. Tie on rope.
8. Attach weights.

When to use Halo gravity traction for scoliosis?

If your child has a severe spinal curve that is affecting his or her quality of life, preoperative halo gravity traction is a treatment that can help gradually straighten their spine over time and decrease the size of their spinal curve prior to surgery.

Is there a traction program for scoliosis patients?

For severe spinal deformities, this technique has been shown to improve the safety and effectiveness of the final surgical procedure, as well as reduce pain medication usage and medical stays following surgery. For more information about the Scoliosis Traction Program, please call 202-476-5562.

What are the different types of halo traction?

Spine conditions that may require halo traction include: 1 severe scoliosis 2 severe cervical kyphosis 3 cervical instability, including cervical kyphosis and basilar invagination 4 congenital spine deformities 5 neuromuscular scoliosis More

What happens to a child with halo traction?

After halo traction, children usually have spinal fusion surgery to permanently stabilize the spine. After her spine started to pinch her spinal cord, Gracie spent four weeks in halo traction. Her parents helped her make the most of her time in the hospital.