The yale cervical orthosis: an evaluation of its effectiveness in restricting cervical motion in normal subjects and a comparison with other cervical orthoses.

The Yale cervical orthosis is a lightweight polyethylene foam Philadelphia collar with molded fiberglass extensions over the thorax. This orthosis was studied on 17 normal subjects in the extremes of the ranges of flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending using roentgenograms and axial photographs to assess how effectively it limited motion of the neck. Overall, it satisfactorily controlled cervical motion and was similar to the most effective rigid cervical orthoses. Flexion and extension ranges were compared at different segmental levels of the spine. The Yale orthosis was most successful in restricting flexion in the area of the middle and lower cervical spine and was acceptable in controlling extension range. The orthosis was least effective in controlling motion in the upper spine, particularly at the atlantoaxial articulation. The Yale orthosis is recommended for postsurgical protection of the middle and lower cervical spine and in select situations of spinal instability, but it is not recommended for control of odontoid fractures or atlantoaxial subluxation.

[Milwaukee brace in the treatment of idiopathic scolioses. Results and indications]. / Le corset de Milwaukee dans le traitement des scolioses idiopathiques. Résultats et indications

The author reports a ten-years experience of the Milwaukee brace in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. 168 patients were treated and the results are analysed according to age at onset of treatment, severity of the curves, type of scoliosis. It is concluded that this bracing is worthwile as well for young children as for teenagers, the goal of the treatment being to prevent physical and psychological distress in adult life.

[Use of pneumatic braces in the rehabilitation of motor handicaps]. / L'utilisation des orthèses pneumatiques pour l'appareillage des handicapés moteurs

The authors describe the advantages of pneumatic orthesis which are: On a mechanical standpoint the comfort related to the lightness and elasticity of the bracing allowing better walking, specialty in paraplegies from thoracic level. The rigidity of the orthesis can be changed by modifying the air-pressure and this type of bracing can be used in various diseases such as cerebral palsy or myopathies. On a social standpoint this type of orthesis can be obtained more rapidly than conventional ones. It allows a shorter hospitalization and, therefore, a better rehabilitation.