What is a Thomas traction splint?
The Thomas half-ring splints consist of a padded half-circle of steel which is strapped to the hip, hinged to a U-shaped rod that extends along both sides of the leg. An ankle strap may be fashioned from cloth, and tied or twisted to apply traction force. It was devised by H.O.
What was the impact of the Thomas splint?
When the Thomas Splint was consistently used, an enormous reduction in the mortality rate of soldiers with severe thigh injuries was observed. While not solely because of the introduction of use of the Thomas Splint, it is believed to have played a large role in reducing the mortality rate from over 80% to just 15.6%.
What is Russell’s traction?
A form of traction used to align a fractured femur. The lower leg is supported in a sling just below the knee and pulling forces are exerted upwards and longitudinally by means of pulleys and weights. [ R. H. Russell (1860–1933), Australian surgeon]
When should you use a traction splint?
Traction splints are recommended on all mid-shaft femur fractures to establish patient comfort and better fracture alignment. Traction splints have utility in the management of both closed and open fractures of the femoral diaphysis.
Why was the Thomas splint introduced?
Thomas advocated enforced rest as the best remedy for fractures and tuberculosis and created the so-called ‘Thomas Splint’ to stabilise a fractured femur and prevent infection. Previous to this the leg would have been amputated, which was often a death sentence.
When was the Thomas splint used?
The earliest splint was first used in 1865 for treating diseases of the knee such as tuberculosis by prolonged rest and immobilisation,1 and only later for the management of fractures of the lower limb.
What is Buck’s traction for hip fracture?
To stabilize the fracture, Ms. Hightower’s right leg is placed in Buck’s traction, which includes a foam boot. A weight attached to the boot pulls the bone fragments into alignment. Buck’s traction prevents further traumatic injury and reduces muscle spasms.
How do you move a patient in Buck’s traction?
The patient’s body should always be in alignment with the force of traction. Check the patient’s position each time you enter the room and help the patient slide up in bed if necessary. Encourage the patient to use the overhead trapeze instead of elbows to move in bed.
What is Buck’s traction used for?
Buck’s skin traction is widely used in the lower limb for femoral fractures, lower backache, acetabular and hip fractures. Skin traction rarely reduces a fracture, but reduces pain and maintains length in fractures.
Do we still use the Thomas splint?
This splint is still used today in the treatment of some femoral fractures in children. The Thomas splint has also continued to prove its value in armed conflict.
What are two common types of traction splints?
Currently the two main traction splints that dominate the market are Hare and Sager. Other options include Thomas, Kendrick, Donway, Slishman, and CT-6 splints, but these are not as commonly used.
Can you use a traction splint on an open fracture?
How do you size a Thomas splint?
Size the Thomas Splint (Fig. For length, measure the pelvic attachment of the adductor longus tendon to the heel and add 25 cm. For the ring size, measure the oblique circumference of the groin (around ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter) of the uninjured side, and add 5 cm (to account for swelling).
What is the purpose of Buck’s traction?