A device is provided for maintaining the head of a patient in predetermined spatial relationship to the body of the patient. The device comprises an elliptical truncated member (halo) adapted to fit around the patient's head from front to back. The elliptical member, or open-backed halo includes a stiffening brim integrally associated with it at the front portion of the halo. The halo also includes a plurality of mounting holes and vibrational isolators for receiving skull pins to contact and grip the patient's head. The halo further includes, midway between the front and rear of the elliptical member two depressed segments which allow for positioning of skull tongs on the patient's head while the halo remains on the patient. The device also includes adjustable means for attaching the open-backed halo to a vest worn by the patient.