[Long-term results and complications of halo fixation and extension].

Halo fixation has proved eminently suitable for introducing corrective forces into various regions of the vertebral column. The local complications necessitating changes of screws are directly related to the tightness of the screws. By carefully checking the tightness of the screws with a torque screwdriver complications due to the screws can largely be avoided. The magnitude of the force introduced and the duration of halo fixation are of secondary importance under these conditions. No penetrations of the screws or persistent infections were found; thanks to the spacers, severe injuries due to the halo tearing out as a result of a fall can be avoided. The considerably higher rate of complications and the severe complications with the halo cast fixation are caused by the rigid connection between the halo and thoracic plaster or respectively the plastic jacket, and the specific features of observation of the course in particular conditions e.g., Bechterew's disease.