What is the traction force applied for a closed mid-shaft fracture using a Sager splint?

When managing a closed mid-shaft fracture using a Sager splint, the application of traction is an essential component of the treatment process. The recommended traction force is calculated based on a percentage of the patient’s body weight, which helps stabilize the fracture and align the bone properly.

The correct approach involves applying a traction force of 10% of the patient's body weight, with a maximum limit of 15 pounds. This specification is critical as it balances the need for enough traction to realign the fractured bone while ensuring it does not exceed the strength of the tissues and structures surrounding the injury. Too much force could potentially cause further injury or complications.

While lower percentages, such as 5% of body weight, may be insufficient to achieve adequate fracture stabilization, higher percentages, like 15% or 20%, might place undue stress on the patient’s body and the splint system. Therefore, the specified 10% of body weight cap at 15 pounds is designed to provide effective treatment while minimizing risk.