Halo Gravity Traction: Uses, Benefits, Complications, and More
Halo gravity traction is a procedure that gradually stretches the spine in order to correct severe spinal conditions. For some children, it may be a better choice than surgery.
Halo gravity traction involves attaching a metal “halo” to a person’s head. A healthcare professional then attaches this to a weighted pulley system that gradually adjusts the spine.
First used in 1959, the device is less common today due to advancements in surgical fixation and fusion procedures. However, it might still be the preferred option for some, including children and those who can’t have surgery. Specialists may also use it before surgery to help with correcting the spine.
Although the procedure may seem quite painful, some people experience immediate benefits, like breathing more easily and having less pain.
Read on to learn more about how halo gravity traction works.
Halo gravity traction uses and benefits
Healthcare professionals may use halo gravity traction to treat advanced spinal conditions, such as:
- severe scoliosis
- neuromuscular scoliosis
- upper cervical spine injuries
- congenital spine irregularities
- cervical (neck) instability
- severe cervical kyphosis
Halo bracing comes with risks, but specialists may consider it the safest option in some cases. For example, it can be a good choice for children, as their bones are still developing. In children and adolescents with severe spinal curvature, halo traction lowers the risk of nerve and tissue damage compared with surgical intervention.
It’s not always a replacement for surgery, however, and a doctor may recommend a less invasive surgical method afterward, such as spinal fusion.
How halo gravity traction works
First, your child will receive a general anesthetic, which means they’ll be asleep during the procedure. A healthcare professional will then attach a metal ring, or halo, to the skull using several pins.
They’ll then connect this halo to a weighted pulley system that gently pulls the head and spine upward. The process generally takes about 1 to 2 hours.
Over the span of about 3 to 12 weeks, the healthcare professional will add small increments of weight. This steady increase in force slowly stretches and realigns the spine.
Throughout the treatment, your child may use a wheelchair or walker, allowing for some mobility. And regular monitoring, including X-rays and neurological checks, ensures that the spine is responding appropriately to the traction.
What to know once the halo is put on
Your child will typically stay in the hospital for the duration of their treatment. Throughout their stay, a healthcare professional will add a small amount of weight incrementally to the device, until the total weight is about 50% of the child’s weight.
Healthcare professionals will monitor your child closely to ensure that the process goes smoothly and to assess for any nerve issues. This process may include:
The healthcare team will likely encourage your child to move around with help from a wheelchair or walker. Also, it’s safe to do schoolwork or work throughout the treatment.
If your child needs to use the bathroom, they’ll temporarily detach from the halo device. And while they’re sleeping, a healthcare professional may significantly reduce the amount of traction or remove the device altogether. Ultimately, this depends on the doctor’s advice and what works best for each person.
Is halo gravity traction painful?
Because your child will be under general anesthesia while a specialist is placing the pins, they shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. However, some people may experience a headache, soreness, or swelling around the pin sites in the hours or days that follow.
Other potential side effects may include:
- spinal pain or discomfort
- pin site infections
- pin loosening
According to a 2019 review of children undergoing halo gravity traction, these side effects are generally mild and easily manageable with help from muscle relaxants, antibiotics, and pin retightening.
Potential risks and complications
Most halo gravity traction complications are mild, especially compared with the risks of surgery.
Beyond issues like discomfort or infection, additional complications that may occur include:
- nerve issues in the head or face
- infections or fractures around the eye
- double vision or other vision problems
- spinal nerve pain
- irregular heartbeat
- issues swallowing
- skull punctures
- breathing issues or pneumonia, though this is more common in older adults
A small 2022 study in children found that:
- 95% experienced complications
- 90% experienced cervical (neck) pain
- 36% experienced back pain
- 26% experienced minor neurological issues
- 5% experienced dizziness or pin displacement
The researchers note that complications, including infections and neurological issues, were minor and didn’t cause any long-term consequences. However, they say that further research in larger samples is needed before drawing any conclusions.
It’s important to note that because halo gravity traction is highly specialized, only a small number of hospitals and surgeons in the United States can perform this treatment.
How parents can support children having halo gravity traction
If your child’s having halo gravity traction, there are a few things you can do to help them feel as relaxed as possible during the process. These steps include:
- Making them feel at home: During their hospital stay, plan to stay with them and bring their favorite toys, some games, or any decorations that may help them feel cozy and comfortable.
- Encouraging them to play (safely): Children don’t need to sit still and watch TV while wearing the device. They usually adjust to using a walker or wheelchair quickly and often benefit from some light exercise and fun.
- Helping them sleep peacefully: Your child will sleep in a specialized bed while in traction, but it may take some adjustment. Consider using a neck pillow or rolled-up towel to support their head while they get some shuteye.
Other tips to remember include:
- ensuring that your child avoids high impact activities for several months
- using only baby shampoo on their wounds
- monitoring for pain, numbness, or fever
Of course, always follow the doctor’s orders carefully to ensure a smooth healing process.
What’s the outlook for someone having halo gravity traction?
Although the procedure may come with complications, they’re somewhat minor compared with more invasive surgical procedures.
According to the authors of one 2024 paper, the halo brace is currently the most effective spinal brace device available for increasing upper cervical spinal mobility.
The authors of the same paper estimate that the success rate is about 85%. In one study the authors cite, about 121 people from a sample of 239 had minor complications.
In the same 2022 study mentioned earlier, the researchers note that the device can reduce discomfort and correct spinal curves by up to 50%.
What is Halo Gravity Traction?
Halo gravity traction is a medical procedure used primarily to correct spinal deformities, such as severe scoliosis or other curvatures of the spine. It involves the use of a halo ring that is attached to the skull and connected to a pulley system, which applies a gradual and controlled force to stretch the spine and improve its alignment over time.
How is Halo Gravity Traction Used?
Halo gravity traction is typically used in hospitals or specialized medical facilities under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals. The patient wears a halo ring that is surgically secured to the skull using pins. Weights or an adjustable pulley system are then used to exert traction on the spine, which helps in gradually correcting its alignment. This procedure is often used as a preparatory step before corrective spinal surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Halo Gravity Traction?
The primary benefit of halo gravity traction is its ability to gradually correct spinal deformities, which can lead to improved posture, reduced pain, and enhanced overall quality of life for the patient. By gently stretching the spine over time, this method allows for better surgical outcomes in subsequent spinal surgeries. It also helps to increase lung function and reduce pressure on internal organs caused by severe spinal curves.
What Are the Potential Complications of Halo Gravity Traction?
Like any medical procedure, halo gravity traction carries some risks and potential complications. These may include discomfort from the halo device, pin site infections, and, in rare cases, nerve damage. Proper care and maintenance of the pin sites and close monitoring by medical professionals can help minimize these risks. Patients and their families should be informed of these potential complications before undergoing the procedure.
How Long Does a Patient Typically Undergo Halo Gravity Traction?
The duration of halo gravity traction varies depending on the severity of the spinal deformity and the specific medical needs of the patient. It can last from a few weeks to several months. The healthcare team will regularly evaluate progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed to achieve optimal spinal correction before proceeding with any further interventions, such as surgery.
What Should Patients Expect During the Halo Gravity Traction Process?
Patients undergoing halo gravity traction can expect to wear the halo device continuously for the duration of their treatment. They may experience some discomfort or pressure from the apparatus, particularly at the sites where the pins are inserted. Regular check-ups with medical professionals are necessary to monitor progress and manage any side effects or complications. Patients are usually encouraged to stay mobile and engage in specific physical activities as advised by their healthcare team to support their treatment.
Who Might Be a Candidate for Halo Gravity Traction?
Candidates for halo gravity traction are typically individuals with severe spinal deformities that cannot be adequately managed with non-invasive treatments. This may include children and adults with severe scoliosis or kyphosis. The decision to use halo gravity traction is made by a specialized healthcare team, taking into account the severity of the condition, overall health status, and specific patient needs.
Is Halo Gravity Traction Painful?
While some discomfort is expected during halo gravity traction due to the nature of the procedure, significant pain is not typical. The halo is designed to be as comfortable as possible given the circumstances, and medical staff work to manage and minimize any discomfort throughout the process. Patients should communicate any pain or distress to their healthcare providers to ensure proper management and care.
The bottom line
Halo gravity traction is a reasonably effective way to correct severe spinal irregularities, especially for children and adolescents whose bones are still developing.
Due to the invasive nature of the device in the skull, it requires very delicate care and attention throughout the treatment process.
Serious complications are rare, and most people report benefits like reduced spinal pain and improved breathing.
This is a highly informative post! It’s fascinating to learn about how halo gravity traction works and the potential benefits it offers for individuals with spinal issues. The explanation about the potential complications is also valuable, as it provides a comprehensive overview of what patients might expect. It’s great to see advancements in treatments that aim to improve quality of life. Thank you for sharing!