halo vest [Gk, halos, circular floor; AS, kasta] , an orthopedic device used to help immobilize the neck and head, providing traction to the cervical spine. It incorporates a vest, usually with shoulder straps, and metal bars within the cast that connect the vest to secure pins to a band around the skull. The halo is attached to the skull by pins or screws. The halo vest is used to aid the healing of injuries and cervical dislocations and to position and immobilize a patient after cervical surgery.
