Le Bonheur Children's Hospital

Halo Traction

What is halo traction?
Halo traction is a treatment to help straighten the backs of children with severe curves in their spines.

The halo traction equipment includes:

  • A ring that goes around the head
  • A lightweight, fleece-like vest
  • A set of four rods that connect the vest to the ring

The equipment gently pulls the back's soft tissue (joints and muscles) to help straighten the spine.

Who can benefit from halo traction?
Halo traction is for children with severe curves in their spines (80+degrees) that can't be corrected with other treatment.

Children with severe infantile, juvenile and adolescent scoliosis and Scheuerman's Kyphosis may benefit from halo traction. These conditions can cause pressure on the heart and lungs. Halo traction can help decrease that pressure.

The multi-disciplinary spine team at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center can perform an extensive evaluation to determine whether your child can benefit from halo traction.

What is the goal of halo traction?
Halo traction is used to improve and maintain heart and lung health. The degree of curve reduction achieved varies depending on each child's condition. Halo traction is sometimes performed to straighten the spine enough for surgery.

How is the halo applied?
While your child is under general anesthesia (fully asleep), a metal ring will be secured to his or her skull with titanium pins. The pins hold the halo in place a short distance from the forehead.

A lightweight vest will be put on over the shoulders, around the back and chest. The vest keeps the spine stable. The vest is attached to the halo with metal rods. Once the vest is positioned, a series of X-rays will be taken to make sure the spine is positioned correctly.

How long will my child wear the halo and vest?
Most children wear the equipment for about three months.

Why Le Bonheaur Children's?
The orthopedic surgeons at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center are some of the most well respected pediatric surgeons in the United States. The hospital's spine program is dedicated to the treatment and research of pediatric spinal conditions. Children from across the country visit Le Bonheur each year for treatment.