Sager® Emergency Traction Splints and the Minto Fracture Kit
19
Step 1
Position
Position the Sager®
S
304
between the patients’ legs, resting the
Ischial Perineal Cushion (the saddle) against the ischial tuberosity, with the shortest end of
the Articulating Base towards the ground.
In the case of a unilateral fracture, the splint should be placed in the perineum on the side
of the injury. In bilateral fractures, excluding pelvic trauma, the side with the greatest degree
of injury should be the side of placement. Apply the Abductor Bridle (thigh strap) around the
upper thigh of the fractured limb. Push the Ischial Perineal Cushion gently down while at the
same time pulling the thigh strap laterally under the patients’ thigh. This will seat the lower
end of the cushion comfortably against the ischial tuberosity. Tighten the thigh strap lightly.
Lift the Spring Clip to extend the Inner Shaft on the
S
304
until the Crossbar rests adjacent
to the patients’ heels.
Step 2
Set
Note the absence or presence of distal pulses, check for sensation. Position the Malleolar Harness
(ankle harness) beneath the heel(s) and just above the ankle(s), fold down the number of Comfort
Cushions needed to engage all of the ankle above the medial and lateral malleoli. Using the
attached Hook and Loop Straps wrap the ankle harness around the ankle to secure snugly. Pull
control tabs to engage the ankle harness tightly against the Crossbar. Apply
QUANTIFIABLE
DYNAMIC TRACTION™
. Grasp the padded shaft of the
S
304
with one hand and the
Traction Handle with the other, gently extend the Inner Shaft until the desired amount of
traction is recorded on the Traction Scale. It is suggested to use 10% of the patients’ body weight
per fractured femur up to 7kg (15 lbs.) for each leg. If bilateral fractures are present the
maximum amount would be 14kg (30 lbs.). At the hollow of the knees, gently slide the large
elastic Leg Cravat through and upwards to the thigh repeating with the smaller cravats to
minimize lower and mid-limb movement.
Step 3
Secure
Adjust the thigh strap at the upper Thigh making sure it is not too tight but snug and secure,
then firmly secure the elastic Leg Cravats. Apply the Pedal Pinion (figure 8 strap) around the
feet to prevent rotation. Note the absence or presence of distal pulses, check for sensation.
Patient is now ready for transport.
Warning:
All Operators should receive full and proper initial/refresher instruction sessions from
a qualified person on detailed use of this equipment and regarding the particular situations
in which it should be used.
(PowerPoint #9, 11)
Training application sheet #3:
For model
S
304
Traction Splint.
