The stabilizing effects of different orthoses for the intact and unstable upper cervical sine - A biomechanical study

Background: Although there are only few reliable data about their stabilizi ng effect on individual segments, a variety of different orthoses for the c ervical spine are frequently used. Methods: In an experimental study with 4 fresh-frozen cadavers the stabiliz ing effects of Soft Collar(R), Miami J Collar(R), prefabricated Minerva Bra ce(R), and Halo-Fixator were compared in the intact and unstable upper cerv ical spine under fluoroscopy. Results and conclusion: None of the tested orthoses restricts motion of the upper cervical spine equally to the Halo-Fixator and is therefore able to guarantee sufficient stability for conservative treatment of unstable fract ures of C1 or C2. The development of a new orthosis with higher restriction of relative movement appears to be possible.