Halo-body device

A halo-body system is described which has been developed at Princess Margaret Rose Orthopaedic Hospital in Edinburgh. The system is easy to apply and consists of a standard halo, linked to malleable plates by two hollow vertical rods. These rods are connected to the ring by swivel joints which allow for the movements of flexion and extension. The malleable plates are incorporated into the plaster jacket which rests upon the iliac crests. The results of 13 patients who have had this system applied are discussed and include patients who have sustained fractures of the cervical spine or who have had bone destruction from metastatic disease or from infection. Using this type of system there have been few complications and the patients have benefitted from easy mobilisation.