Which traction is indicated for a malgained fracture of the pelvis resulting in pelvic ring instability?

• A. Pelvic Girdle Traction
• B. Bohler Braun Splint
• C. Hammock Suspension Traction
• D. Cotrel Traction

Answer: (C)

When a pelvis fracture disrupts the pelvic ring and is malaligned, the goal is to realign the ring while providing temporary stabilization to reduce bleeding and pain before definitive fixation. Hammock suspension traction is the technique tailored for this situation because it allows controlled, gentle traction directly on the pelvic ring without placing unwanted stresses on the legs or other joints. By placing a sheet or hammock under the buttocks and sacrum and suspending the pelvis from an overhead frame, weights can apply longitudinal traction that encourages proper alignment of both the anterior and posterior elements of the ring. This setup minimizes additional soft tissue injury and permits gradual reduction of the malalignment, making it the most appropriate choice for pelvic ring instability due to a malgained fracture. Other options either immobilize without reducing (like a splint), target different regions (such as spinal traction), or do not provide the traction pattern needed to correct pelvic ring instability.