Halo fixator

In a Halofixateur ( Halo Greek, ring;. Fixateur . Franz, retaining system) is an external fixator , a restraint system , with which after a fracture of the upper cervical vertebrae , the cervical spine and the head can be fixed in an anatomically regular position until healing .

When using the halo fixator, a ring made of metal, carbon or a plastic spans the head . There are four pins on it, which are screwed into the outer lamella of the skull bone for stabilization . The pins go through the skin and sit on the top of the skull. They are made of titanium and therefore do not cause allergies to the body . An inflammation of the entry points of the pins is prevented by regular treatment with an antiseptic . The ring remains on rods with a corset made of plastic connected to lock the cervical spine. The corset consists of a chest and back plate, connected with straps for adjustment and in most cases is lined with lamb or faux fur.

A halo fixator weighs about two kilograms. The fit must be checked at regular intervals to ensure optimal healing. It may be necessary to readjust the screws on the fixator. The fixator remains on the head for about 12 weeks, depending on the healing process.