COMPLICATIONS OF TRACTION

&MANAGEMENT OF

PATIENT IN TRACTION

ADITYA.D

Complications of Skin Traction

• Allergic reaction • Excoriation of the skin• Pressures sores• Common peroneal nerve palsy

Complications of Skeletal Traction

• Introduction of infection into bone• Incorrect placement of the pin or wire• Distraction of the fracture site due to heavy

weights• Ligamentous damage – prolonged period• Damage to epiphyseal growth plates• Depressed scar

Management of patients in Traction

PATIENT

NURSING CARE

MEDICAL CARE

CARE OF THE INJURED LIMB

TRACTION SUSPENSION SYSTEM

RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION

PHYSIOTHERPY

REMOVAL OF TRACTION

NURSING CARE

• General appearance• Observation & Charts• Bed & Bedding• Food• Toilet• Pain Relief• Skin• Mental Status

MEDICAL CARE

• Blood loss• Chest complications• Urinary tract• Bowels• Pre – existing conditions

CARE OF INJURED LIMB

Injured limb should be examined twice daily 1.Pain 2.Paraesthesia or Numbness 3.Skin irritation 4.Swelling 5.Weakness & reduced range of movements

THE TRACTION SUSPENSION SYSTEM

1. Bed & Balkan Beam2. Splint3. Slings & Paddings4. Skin Traction5. Skeletal Traction6. Stirrups7. Cords8. Pulleys9. Weights

RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION

• Regular radiographic examination• Frequency of radiographic examination 2-3 times ---- 1st week Weekly ---- next 3 weeks Monthly ---- until Union occurs After each manipulation After each change of traction weights

PHYSIOTHERAPY

• Mental & Physical condition• Rehabilitation immediately• Encouraged to be active in traction suspension

system• Emphasis on coughing and breathing exercise• Encourage venous return• Ankle and leg exercises• Joint stiffness & Disuse

REMOVAL OF TRACTION

UNTIL FRACTURE IS STABLE S.No

Types of Fracture

Time (weeks)

1. Elbow Fracture with olecranon pin 3

2. Tibial fracture with calcaneal pin 3 – 6

3. Trochanteric fracture of femur allowing partial weight- bearing 6

4. Femoral shaft fracturea. With cast brace & partial weight bearingb. Without external support & partial weight bearing

612

REFERENCE

• Traction and Orthopedic Appliances (2nd edition) by John D.M Stewart & Jaffery P. Hallett

• Practical Orthopedics by Kakkad Subhash