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Halo Skeletal Fixation: Techniques of Application and Prevention of Complications

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine; Rehabilitation Medicine, Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, San Diego.

The halo skeletal fixator provides the most rigid cervical immobilization of all orthoses. However, complications such as pin loosening and infection are common. Appreciation of local anatomy and adherence to established application guidelines should minimize pin-related problems. A relatively safe zone for anterior pin placement is located 1 cm above the orbital rim and superior to the lateral two thirds of the orbit. Posterior pin-site locations are less critical; positioning on the posterolateral aspect of the skull, diagonal to the contralateral anterior pins, is generally desirable. Pins should enter the skull perpendicular to the cortex, with the ring or crown sitting below the widest portion of the skull and passing about 1 cm above the helix of the ear. Pins are inserted at a torque of 8 in-lb and retightened once to 8 in-lb at 48 hours. A loose pin can be retightened to 8 in-lb if resistance is met; otherwise, a loose pin should be replaced at a nearby site. Superficially infected pins are managed with local pin care and oral antibiotics. Persistent or severe infections require pin replacement to a nearby site, parenteral antibiotic therapy, and incision and drainage as needed. In-ability to maintain acceptable cervical reduction with a halo fixator is an indication for alternative treatment, such as internal fixation or traction.