A halo-vest is a brace that is used to immobilize and protect the cervical spine and neck after surgery or accident. The halo is a ring that surrounds the head and is attached by pins to the outer portion of the skull; however, some Halos are pinless but are only used in certain situations.
Does a halo brace go into the skull?
The halo and its jacket and rods hold the head still, so that the bones can heal. The pins in the halo are secured to the skull, which prevents any motion in the neck.
Does a halo brace hurt?
Is a Halo Brace Painful? No, the halo brace should not cause pain. Some kids get headaches, especially while eating, but this usually goes away after the child gets used to the brace. If the pain continues or gets worse, the surgeon may adjust the pins to make the child more comfortable.
How long does a halo brace stay on?
Your halo vest may be removed after about 12 weeks. This may seem like a long time, but it takes time for your body to heal.
How do you sleep with a halo brace?
Sleeping in a Halo
Nighttime suggestions include sleeping in a reclining chair and lying on the back with a small pillow or foam wedge. Eventually, sleeping on a side or on the stomach may be possible. When getting up, it is important to not sit upright and bend at the waist.
Can you drive with halo traction?
Do not drive a vehicle or ride a bike while you wear your halo brace. You also may have limits on heavy lifting and exercise.
Can you shower with a halo brace?
You cannot have a shower while in the halo vest. Sponge baths should be done daily while lying flat. The skin under the vest should be looked at daily during bathing for redness, sores or blisters. If redness, sores, or blisters are present, contact your halo nurse or spine surgeon.
What is Somi brace?
A sterno-occipital-mandibular immobilization device (SOMI) is a rigid cervical brace that positions your neck in straight alignment with your spine. This brace supports your neck by preventing your head and neck from moving.
How do you wash your hair with a halo brace?
Washing the Hair
Small children can lie on their back on the kitchen counter with their head over the sink. Bigger kids can lean over the sink or tub. Use a faucet sprayer or plastic bottle sprayer to wet the hair, shampoo, and rinse. Be careful not to splash or spray the vest.
Do they still use halos for neck injuries?
In conclusion, the halo vest is an excellent method of cervical spine immobilization that is acceptable to most patients. Side effects and complications are generally mild, if they occur at all, and rates of healing for many cervical spine injuries are excellent.
What happens after halo brace is removed?
Once the halo is removed, your child may need to wear a collar for some time, as recommended by the surgeon. While your child may be completely healed at this time, the collar offers additional protection from overusing the neck and serves as a transition to normal use.
Can you fully recover from a broken neck?
A broken neck with no damage to the spinal cord may heal completely, but it’s possible to suffer continued neck pain and frequent headaches as the result of this injury.
What is Halo surgery?
A halo brace is an orthotic, or support, that helps immobilize and protect the bones in the neck (cervical spine) following an injury or surgery. The halo brace consists of a halo (ring), a body jacket (vest) and rigid uprights (rods).
