Cotrel Traction is used for scoliosis; it combines head halter traction with pelvic-girdle traction.

• A. For lumbar spine fracture
• B. For cervical spine affection
• C. For scoliosis
• D. For pelvic fracture

Answer: (C)

Cotrel traction is a spinal deformity technique aimed at correcting scoliosis through gradual, distributed forces along the spine. By using a head halter to apply traction from the upper spine and a pelvic-girdle system to pull from the pelvis, it lengthens and realigns the spine piece by piece. This setup helps stretch contracted muscles and soft tissues, reduce muscle spasm, and slowly reduce the lateral curvature, making later surgical correction safer and more effective or sometimes aiding nonoperative goals in growing patients.

This approach is not used for acute injuries like a lumbar fracture or a pelvic fracture, where immobilization or stabilization is the priority. It’s also not a standard method for isolated cervical spine conditions, which require different traction or immobilization strategies specific to the cervical region.