Which statement best describes the Minerva orthosis?

Which statement best describes the Minerva orthosis?

• A. Attaches to skull by screws
• B. Is a soft collar
• C. Uses forehead band without screws
• D. Allows early mobilization

Answer: (C)

The Minerva orthosis is a rigid cranio-cervical immobilization device that attaches to the skull with a forehead band (no screws). This design, combined with a rigid shell that extends to the occiput, stabilizes the head and upper cervical spine to limit motion after injury or surgery. It is not a soft collar and it does not use skull pins or screws—unlike a halo vest. Because it purposefully restricts movement to promote healing, it does not typically allow early mobilization. So the best description is that it uses a forehead band without screws.

The Minerva orthosis is a rigid cranio-cervical immobilization device that attaches to the skull with a forehead band (no screws). This design, combined with a rigid shell that extends to the occiput, stabilizes the head and upper cervical spine to limit motion after injury or surgery. It is not a soft collar and it does not use skull pins or screws—unlike a halo vest. Because it purposefully restricts movement to promote healing, it does not typically allow early mobilization. So the best description is that it uses a forehead band without screws.