Sager Traction Splint

Question 1

Introduction

Answer 1

is a unipolar splint used to align femur fractures
Splinting fractures increase arterial blood flow, decreases pain and spasm and decreases risk of further injury from fractured bone fragments

Question 2

Indications

Answer 2

Open or closed mid-shaft fracture of the femur only

Question 3

Contraindications

Answer 3

• Hip/pelvic fracture
• Supracondylar fracture of distal femur or knee fracture
• Fractures of ankle or foot
• Partial amputation or avulsion w/ bone separation while only marginal tissue connects the distal limb

Question 4

Application

Answer 4

1. Place the splint along the medial aspect of the inj leg. Adjust it so that it extends about four inches beyond the heel
2. Secure the strap to the thigh. Caution the sager splint should not be used if pelvic fracture is suspected
3. Apply the ankle hitch, and attach it to the splint
4. Apply traction by extending the splint. Adjust the splint to 10% of the pts body weight or up to 15lb per extremity being immobilized
   5, Apply the straps to secure the leg to splint. Reassess distal pulse, motor function and sensation