The Efficacy of Halo Traction for Scoliosis in Osteogenesis Imperfecta: The Optimal Duration of Traction

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the optimal duration of halo traction for scoliosis in osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) patients. Materials and Methods: A review was performed on six consecutive patients who have undergone halo traction before posterior release and spinal fusion. Cobb angles of the major coronal curves were measured. The amount of correction achieved by the 1st month, 2nd month, and beyond 2 months of traction were analyzed. Patient outcomes were also reviewed. Results: In this cohort of six patients with a pre-traction Cobb angle 114.5°, the average amount of correction achieved by halo traction was 23.6%. The percent of correction achieved at the first month was 63.2% (p=0.026). Further improvement achieved in the 2nd month was of an average of 10.5%. None of the patients develop neurological complications during the traction. Conclusion: Preoperative halo traction for scoliotic OI patients is effective and safe. Significant radiographic curve correction occurred by the 1st month of traction. Traction beyond 1 month should only be considered if the perceived benefit outweighs the risk of prolonged traction.