Gallow's Traction

Gallows traction (overhead Bryant skin traction) is useful for children younger than 2 years who weigh 10-12 kg for Fracture shaft of femur.

The traction should be enough to just lift the buttocks of the child off the bed.

Careful examination of the neurovascular status of the extremity is mandatory in the early period after application of traction.

Older children have a risk of compartment syndrome , vascular insufficiency, peroneal nerve palsy, and skin breakdown when treated with this method.