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Orthopedic Traction Principles and Techniques
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1
Question
What is the primary purpose of applying traction in orthopedic treatment?
Answer
To relieve pain, overcome muscle spasm, and promote healing.
2
Question
What are the two main methods of applying traction described?
Answer
Skin traction and skeletal traction.
3
Question
Why is traction effective in managing inflammation and fractures?
Answer
It overcomes muscle spasm, relieves pain, and stabilizes injured parts.
4
Question
What is skin traction and how is it generally applied?
Answer
Traction over skin using adhesive or non-adhesive methods, distributed over a large area.
5
Question
What is the maximum traction weight for skin traction using Ventfoam Bandage?
Answer
15 pounds (6.7 kg).
6
Question
List two types of skin traction preparations suitable for allergic patients.
Answer
Orthotrac and Skin-Trac.
7
Question
What are common contraindications to skin traction?
Answer
Abrasions, lacerations, impaired circulation, and significant bony shortening.
8
Question
What complication can arise from incorrect adhesive strapping in skin traction?
Answer
Pressure sores, allergic reactions, nerve palsy, and skin excoriation.
9
Question
What is skeletal traction and when is it used?
Answer
Traction applied directly to bone via pins or wires; used when skin traction is contraindicated, especially in lower limb fractures.
10
Question
Name a type of pin used for skeletal traction and a common site of application.
Answer
Steinmann pin; applied in the lower end of the femur or upper tibia.
11
Question
What are the potential complications of skeletal traction?
Answer
Bony infection and injury from improper pin placement.
12
Question
How is a Steinmann pin inserted into the bone?
Answer
Under aseptic conditions, typically perpendicular to the bone, avoiding joint entry.
13
Question
Describe the technique for applying a Steinmann pin to the lower end of the femur.
Answer
Insert laterally, avoiding the knee joint, under aseptic conditions, often using local or general anesthesia.
14
Question
Why is a Bohler stirrup used with Steinmann pins?
Answer
To allow variation in traction direction without turning the pin.
15
Question
What is the purpose of counter-traction in limb traction?
Answer
To oppose the deforming pull of muscles and prevent limb displacement.
16
Question
What is fixed traction as defined in the context of Thomas's splint?
Answer
A method where counter-traction is applied against a fixed point or device to maintain fracture reduction.
17
Question
For what types of fractures is fixed traction via Thomas's splint most suitable?
Answer
Transverse fractures of the femur that can be reduced by manipulation.
18
Question
What is a key feature of Thomas's splint in applying fixed traction?
Answer
It encircles the limb with a padded ring, with tension applied through side bars.
19
Question
How is counter-traction achieved when using a Thomas's splint?
Answer
By applying force against a fixed point or apparatus on the body opposite to the traction force.
20
Question
Why must the padded ring of a Thomas's splint fit snugly?
Answer
To ensure effective traction and prevent pressure sores.
21
Question
What precautions are necessary to prevent pressure sores with the Thomas's splint?
Answer
Regular skin inspection and adjustment of tension; ensure proper fit.
22
Question
Why does fixed traction decrease the risk of delayed union or non-union of fractures?
Answer
Because it maintains fracture reduction and reduces muscular pull as healing progresses.
23
Question
What is the advantage of fixed traction over other methods?
Answer
It is self-contained, stable, and allows patient movement without displacement risk.
24
Question
What can be done if the padded ring causes pressure or skin issues?
Answer
Reduce pressure by pulling the splint or adjusting fit; ensure skin care.
25
Question
What is the primary purpose of fixed traction in a Thomas's splint?
Answer
To maintain fracture reduction temporarily.
26
Question
When is fixed traction in a Thomas's splint indicated?
Answer
When femoral fracture can be reduced by manipulation.
27
Question
Which fracture types are most suitable for fixed traction in a Thomas's splint?
Answer
Reduced transverse fractures.
28
Question
What passes up the side bars of the splint during fixed traction?
Answer
Counter-thrust or traction force.
29
Question
Why must the padded ring around the limb's root be checked regularly?
Answer
To prevent pressure sores.
30
Question
How can pressure around the limb's root be partly reduced?
Answer
By pulling on the end of the splint.