title: Complications of halo fixation of the cervical spine.
abstract: Halo fixators play an integral role in stabilizing the cervical spine. They are most widely used after upper cervical to midcervical spine fractures and dislocations and as a supplement to various surgical fixation techniques. Compared with supine cervical traction techniques, halo fixators allow early patient mobilization and shorten hospital stays. The incidence of halo-fixator complications remains high. Minor complications include pin loosening, localized infection, periorbital edema, superficial pressure sores, and unsightly scars. Major complications include pin penetration, osteomyelitis, subdural abscess, nerve palsies, fracture overdistraction, and persistent instability. Many of these potential complications can be avoided with proper pin placement and meticulous pin care.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, NY 11040, USA.
authors.forename: Victor M
authors.initials: VM
authors.lastname: Hayes
authors.forename: Jeff S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Silber
authors.forename: Farhan N
authors.initials: FN
authors.lastname: Siddiqi
authors.forename: Dmitriy
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Kondrachov
authors.forename: Jason S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Lipetz
authors.forename: Baron
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Lonner
mesh_terms: D001858:Bone Nails; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000601:surgery*; D000075202:Contraindications; D016267:External Fixators / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000601:surgery; D003668:Pressure Ulcer; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D013530:Surgical Wound Infection / Q000601:surgery