Halo-Femoral Traction is used for which condition?

• A. For S-Type scoliosis
• B. Affection of the surgical neck of the humerus and the shoulder joint
• C. Subtrochanteric and proximal third fracture of the femur
• D. Supracondylar fracture of the humerus

Answer: (A)

Halo-femoral traction is a gradual, combined cranial and femoral traction method used mainly to treat severe scoliosis in children by lengthening the spine and reducing the curve before definitive treatment. It is particularly effective for S-type scoliosis, where two curves form an S shape; the slow, continuous traction helps unfold the deformity, decrease wedging, and improve alignment, making subsequent surgery or fusion safer and easier.

This technique isn’t used for fractures of the humerus or femur or for shoulder joint problems. Those conditions are managed with other traction methods or immobilization strategies specific to the injury.