APPLIED RADIOLOGICAL ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Femoral fractures are often managed using skin traction prior to their definitive surgical management. Some require short term traction i.e. 24 hours whereas others require it for a number of weeks i.e. 6 weeks. Traction limits movement and reduces the fracture to help decrease pain, spasms and swelling.

Detailed explanation-2: -Emergency medical service (EMS) personnel should immobilize the femur to prevent further injury during transport. Traction splints are recommended on all mid-shaft femur fractures to establish patient comfort and better fracture alignment.

Detailed explanation-3: -It’s a system where a combination of pulleys, pins, and weights are used to promote the healing of fractured bones. These are usually in the lower body. There are two common types of traction. These include skin traction and skeletal traction.

Detailed explanation-4: -Traction splints have utility in the management of both closed and open fractures of the femoral diaphysis. They are designed to provide temporary stabilization at the scene for transport to the hospital for definitive treatment/management.