Question
My stepfather who is 65 had an accident and damaged/broke his c6-c7. He is now on breathing machine and lying on his back. He was an active man and played golf and still worked. He can move his arms up and down but cant feel anything else. This happened 4 weeks ago. He is able to nod and wink to questions but cant talk due to the breathing machine going into his throat. Today a halo arrived which was ordered from the USA as they said they had none available in Britain. He still in intensive care and the doctors are going to fit it tomorrow in theatre.
He has constantly had a chest infection since the fall.
I've been told he will able to sit up with the halo on and this will help clear the chest infection.
Also he will be able to see the television as all he has been looking at is the ceiling. We have also given him a CD player and play his music.
What are the chances of recovery with a halo and what sort of life could he expect.
Thankyou Leslie for any advice or information you could give me.
Mark

Answer
hi mark-
The chances of recovery with the halo depends on whether or not he has damaged the spinal cord- they should have done an mri and should be able to tell you this. It does sound as if the cord is damaged, from what you say about his movement.

So he;s on a ventilator due to the infection causing breathing problems? I'm a bit surprised they haven't done a tracheostomy (will scar the vocal chords less- you might enquire. also it seemed less likely to get caught on things, but this was just my experience). Sitting up will help the infection, but after a month it may also make him very dizzy- this wil eventually get better.

His previous health will be of benefit to him in recovery, and the halo should allow the bones to heal without further insult. The rest depends very much on damage to the cord. Even if it has happened, he will be able to do most things (though will likely go to a rehab next to learn how)- having hands really does make a difference

I hope this has helped some, and i'm sorry i don't have more specific info for you
good luck to you all
leslie