In skeletal traction, which statement is true?

In skeletal traction, which statement is true?

• A. It is long-term traction lasting weeks to months
• B. It is short-term traction of a few days
• C. It is never used for hip fractures
• D. It does not reduce muscle spasm

Answer: (A)

Skeletal traction provides a continuous pulling force that is anchored to the bone with pins or wires, allowing the fracture to be held in the correct position for an extended period. Because this traction is bone-anchored, it can be maintained for weeks to months, which is necessary to achieve proper alignment and let the soft tissues settle while the patient awaits definitive treatment or healing progresses. It also helps relieve muscle spasm by gradually stretching surrounding muscles and tissues. While it can be used in some hip fracture scenarios, saying it is never used for hip fractures isn’t accurate. And traction’s purpose includes reducing muscle spasm, so the idea that it does not reduce muscle spasm is incorrect.

Skeletal traction provides a continuous pulling force that is anchored to the bone with pins or wires, allowing the fracture to be held in the correct position for an extended period. Because this traction is bone-anchored, it can be maintained for weeks to months, which is necessary to achieve proper alignment and let the soft tissues settle while the patient awaits definitive treatment or healing progresses. It also helps relieve muscle spasm by gradually stretching surrounding muscles and tissues. While it can be used in some hip fracture scenarios, saying it is never used for hip fractures isn’t accurate. And traction’s purpose includes reducing muscle spasm, so the idea that it does not reduce muscle spasm is incorrect.