A Novel Traction Frame for Femur Fracture Management in Developing Countries: Technique and Outcomes

Abstract

Summary: Fractures of the femur have long been a major cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries and are most frequently caused by road traffic accidents. Intramedullary nail fixation has become the gold standard of care for diaphyseal fractures of the femur. However, modern techniques require proper implants, access to imaging, and accessible operating room facilities, all of which have limited availability in the developing world. We describe a new technique for assembly of a polyvinyl chloride traction frame for treatment of femur fractures in resource-poor settings. Our report includes a retrospective review of patients treated with polyvinyl chloride traction frames in the Dominican Republic and Haiti.