Learn about Skeletal Traction Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Skeletal Traction and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Skeletal Traction

Skeletal traction is a specialized orthopedic procedure used primarily in pediatric orthopedics to treat complex fractures, correct bone deformities, or manage severe injuries. It involves the surgical insertion of pins, wires, or screws directly into a child's bone, which are then connected to a system of weights and pulleys. This setup applies a gentle, continuous pulling force to align bone fragments, relieve pressure on nerves and blood vessels, and maintain proper bone length and position. It is often a critical step before definitive surgery, such as internal fixation. The procedure requires careful monitoring by a pediatric orthopedic team to manage pain, prevent infection, and ensure the child's comfort and safety during the extended treatment period.

Key Highlights

    Provides precise, continuous alignment for complex fractures and deformities.Helps relieve pressure on surrounding nerves, muscles, and blood vessels.Maintains bone length and correct positioning before definitive surgery.Can be a non-invasive alternative to immediate major surgery in some cases.Allows for ongoing assessment and adjustment of the correction.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Severe, unstable long bone fractures (e.g., femur, tibia).
  • Fractures with significant shortening or displacement.
  • Pelvic fractures in children.
  • Certain congenital or acquired limb deformities requiring gradual correction.
  • Severe joint dislocations that are difficult to reduce.
  • Pre-operative stabilization for complex orthopedic surgeries.
  • Management of certain spinal fractures or injuries.

How to prepare

  • Detailed physical examination and imaging (X-rays, CT scan) to assess the injury.
  • Review of the child's medical history and any allergies.
  • Discussion of the procedure, its duration, and care plan with the child and parents.
  • Administration of appropriate anesthesia (often general or regional) for pin insertion.
  • Cleaning and sterilizing the skin at the pin insertion site.
  • Ensuring the traction equipment (frame, weights, pulleys) is correctly set up.

Risks & possible complications

  • Infection at the pin insertion site (pin tract infection).
  • Nerve or blood vessel damage during pin placement.
  • Over-distraction or under-distraction of the bone.
  • Joint stiffness or muscle atrophy due to prolonged immobility.
  • Pressure sores from prolonged bed rest.
  • Allergic reaction to anesthesia or materials.
  • Potential for the pin to loosen or break.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital stay is required for continuous monitoring, pain management, and traction adjustment.
  • Regular cleaning and dressing of pin sites to prevent infection.
  • Physical therapy begins early to maintain joint mobility and muscle strength where possible.
  • Pain is managed with medications.
  • The traction system is maintained for several weeks until adequate bone alignment/healing is achieved.
  • After traction is removed, a cast or brace may be applied, followed by a guided rehabilitation program.
  • Follow-up X-rays are essential to monitor healing progress.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 7-21 days (varies greatly based on injury and treatment plan)
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6 weeks to several months (including traction time and subsequent rehabilitation)

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering skeletal traction in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for skeletal traction compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 544 – USD 2,175 7-21 days (varies greatly based on injury and treatment plan) ~ 6 weeks to several months (including traction time and subsequent rehabilitation) Know More
Turkey USD 4,026 – USD 16,105 7-21 days (varies greatly based on injury and treatment plan) ~ 6 weeks to several months (including traction time and subsequent rehabilitation) Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow...

Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow in a playground fall, and Dr. Prashanth Inna was absolutely phenomenal. He explained the complex procedure in simple terms, calmed our nerves, and the minimally invasive surgery went perfectly. His follow-up care was thorough, and she's now back to gymnastics without any issues!

Pediatric Orthopedics for Skeletal Traction

Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform skeletal traction and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 15 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

OPD-desk synced • Updated