title: Complications of cervical halo-vest orthoses in elderly patients.
abstract: Halo-vest orthoses have been associated with complications. Previous reports have suggested increased complications in elderly patients; however, data are limited. This study reviewed 75 patients =/>65 years with cervical spine fractures treated with halo-vest orthoses. Forty-one patients (55%) experienced at least 1 complication. Pin-site problems were the most frequent adverse outcome. Seventeen patients (23%) had significant pulmonary compromise. Pulmonary complications were associated with high morbidity. We found an 8% early mortality rate. Halo-vest orthoses are useful devises. However, adverse events experienced by elderly patients are common and may lead to significant morbidity and mortality.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedics, Harborview Medical Center, 325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104-2499, USA.
authors.forename: Lisa A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Taitsman
authors.forename: Daniel T
authors.initials: DT
authors.lastname: Altman
authors.forename: Andrew C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Hecht
authors.forename: Frank X
authors.initials: FX
authors.lastname: Pedlow
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009989:Orthotic Devices / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011015:Pneumonia, Aspiration / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D016459:Prosthesis-Related Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D012149:Restraint, Physical / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016896:Treatment Outcome