Skin Traction In Pediatric Orthopaedics: Principles, Techniques, and Clinical Monitoring

Authors

  • Aisyah Adinda Kurniawan Universitas mataram
  • Bq. Indah Agustina Fazira Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mataram, Indonesia
  • Ni Kadek Andining Vidya Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mataram, Indonesia
  • Eprel Pranacinsa Tanagan Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mataram, Indonesia
  • I Made Yahudi Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mataram, Indonesia
  • Rifqi Nurfadillah Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mataram, Indonesia
  • Ahmad Taufik Medical Student, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mataram, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58258/5t8rgf55

Abstract

Skin traction is a non-operative orthopaedic technique that applies controlled pulling force to an extremity through the skin and underlying soft tissues. In pediatric orthopaedics, its primary use is in selected femoral shaft fractures in infants and young children, either as definitive conservative treatment or as an initial method before cast immobilization. This narrative review summarizes the principles, techniques, indications, patient selection, advantages, limitations, equipment, clinical monitoring, complications, and contemporary alternatives of skin traction. Literature was identified through PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar, with the final search on September 1, 2026. Current evidence indicates that the use of skin traction has become more selective with the increasing use of early spica casting, functional bracing, and operative fixation. Nevertheless, carefully supervised skin traction may provide acceptable fracture healing and alignment in appropriately selected young children. Its main limitations include restricted traction force, prolonged hospitalization in some protocols, and potential skin and neurovascular complications. Safe application requires individualized traction loading, appropriate limb positioning and countertraction, protection of pressure-sensitive areas, unobstructed ropes and weights, and regular skin and neurovascular assessment. Skin traction therefore remains a treatment option for selected patients, particularly young children with femoral shaft fractures, when incorporated into an individualized treatment plan.
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Published

2026-09-29

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Vol. 7 No. 3 (2026): Research of Service Administration Health and Sains Healthys (September)

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How to Cite

Skin Traction In Pediatric Orthopaedics: Principles, Techniques, and Clinical Monitoring. (2026). Research of Service Administration Health and Sains Healthys, 7(3), 365-376. https://doi.org/10.58258/5t8rgf55