Kendrick Traction Device (KTD) ケンドリック牽引装置 This is an emergency medical device primarily used for on-site temporary traction (pulling and aligning) in cases such as femur fractures (thigh bone fractures). In English, it is called the Kendrick Traction Device or KTD. Basic Overview • Developer: Randy Kendrick (Paramedic) • Main Use: To reduce muscle contraction, pain, and bleeding caused by a femur fracture by applying traction to the leg, thereby reducing the overlap of bone ends. • Usage Locations: Emergency scenes, ambulances, mountain and disaster sites, etc., used for first aid before transport to a hospital. Structure and Features The Kendrick Traction Device is characterized by its very light weight, compact size, and quick assembly compared to conventional long and heavy traction devices (e.g., the Sager Traction Splint). The main components are as follows: 1. Thigh fixation belt 2. Ankle fixation strap 3. Extendable aluminum rod (traction bar) 4. Tension adjustment strap or handle 5. Storage case (compact size) Principle In a femur fracture, the muscles contract strongly, causing the bone ends to overlap, leading to severe pain and internal bleeding. The traction device transmits the pulling force on the ankle to the pelvis, aligning the bones and relaxing muscle tension, thereby: • Reducing pain • Controlling bleeding • Maintaining peripheral blood flow • Enabling safe patient transport Usage Procedure (Overview) 1. Maintain the leg's axis while avoiding movement of the fracture site. 2. Apply the pelvic belt. 3. Secure the strap to the ankle. 4. Extend the traction bar to the length of the leg. 5. Apply appropriate traction force by pulling the strap. 6. After fixation, stabilize the entire leg for transport. (※ Actual use is performed only by trained medical professionals and paramedics.) Notable Points • Compact and can be stored in a backpack-sized case. • For one leg only (not used on both legs). • Usable in confined spaces, such as helicopter rescues and mountain rescues. • Representative products from other companies: Sager Traction Splint, Hare Traction Splint, etc., are lighter. #FirstAid #WildernessFirstAid #OutdoorEmergency #SkiTouring #Backcountry #Fracture #FirstAid