Halo Traction and PSF

[naomi_6590]

Hi everyone! I work in a pediatric orthopaedic ward and often we will get kids who will have Halo Traction applied and then weeks-months later have a Spinal Fusion. Can somebody please explain the rationale behind this? Why have Halo Traction applied if they are going to have Spinal Fusion anyway?

Thanks!

[OrthoSpineRN]

The halo traction stretches the deformity and makes it more flexible allowing for better correction with surgery. It works particularly well in kids because their curvature is less stiff than adults. It can also be helpful in decreasing the chances of neurological deficits from elongation of the cord when the spine is straightened.

Hope that helps!