Milwaukee Brace
Pronunciation: mil-WAU-kee
A cervico-thoraco-lumbo-sacral orthosis (CTLSO) designed to treat scoliosis in skeletally immature patients, distinguished by its neck ring, pelvic girdle, and vertical uprights.
Full Definition
The Milwaukee brace is a full-length spinal orthosis extending from a custom pelvic girdle to a superstructure of two posterior and one anterior upright connected by a neck ring with occipital and throat pads. Originally developed at the Milwaukee Children's Hospital in the 1940s, it was the standard of care for idiopathic scoliosis curves requiring correction above T8. Because of its visibility and psychosocial impact, it has largely been replaced by thoracolumbosacral orthoses (TLSOs) for lower curves. Editors should render the proper noun with a capital 'M' and verify that the device is not described as a 'TLSO,' from which it differs by the presence of cervical superstructure. The full acronym 'CTLSO' should be expanded on first use.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalise 'Milwaukee'; distinguish clearly from TLSO designs that do not extend to the cervical region.
In Context
- "The adolescent patient was transitioned from a Milwaukee brace to a TLSO following confirmation that the primary curve apex was below T8." — Paediatric orthopaedic clinical note
- "Capitalise 'Milwaukee brace' as a proper noun and avoid abbreviating to 'CTLSO' without expansion on first use." — Editorial style note for scoliosis management textbook