Indications and Efficacy of Halo-Gravity Traction in Pediatric Spinal Deformity

Abstract

Halo-gravity traction (HGT) is a well-established technique for correcting severe spinal deformity in pediatric patients. » HGT induces soft-tissue relaxation and gradually lengthens the spine, and it can be used preoperatively and intraoperatively. » It is typically indicated for spinal deformity over 90°in any plane and medical optimization. » There are several complications associated with the use of HGT, and it is critical to follow a protocol and perform serial examinations to minimize this risk. Disclosure: The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article (http://links.lww.com/JBJSREV/A922).

Three-stage correction of severe idiopathic scoliosis with limited skeletal traction during a humanitarian surgical mission: illustrative case

“…HGT is typically indicated for spinal deformity over 90° in any plane and for medical optimization of the patient. 16 Patients with a major curve between 60° and 90° with a need for respiratory and/or nutritional optimization may also be reasonable candidates for HGT. 17 HGT is not indicated in curves under 60°.…”

“…HGT is typically indicated for spinal deformity over 90°in any plane and for medical optimization of the patient. 16 Patients with a major curve between 60°and 90°with a need for respiratory and/ or nutritional optimization may also be reasonable candidates for HGT. 17 administered to patients with particularly rigid curves, but this technique is even more effective in reducing the magnitude of curves that are flexible.…”

Radiological and Pulmonary Results of Surgical Treatment of Severe Idiopathic Scoliosis Using Preoperative Halo Gravity Traction Compared with Less Invasive Temporary Internal Distraction in Staged Surgery in Adolescents

“…The preferred treatment approach for severe and rigid spinal curvatures is the utilization of preoperative Halo gravity traction (HGT) [9][10][11][12][13][14][15]. However, various alternative methods have also been introduced for managing severe spinal deformities, such as temporary internal distraction (TID) and its various adaptations, anterior release (AR), posterior release (PR), and thoracoplasty with rib osteotomy (TP), as well as different forms of three-column osteotomies like pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) and vertebrectomy (commonly known as vertebral column resection (VCR)) [16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25].…”