Russell’s traction [R. Hamilton Russell, Australian surgeon, 1860–1933; L, trahere, to pull along] , a unilateral or a bilateral orthopedic mechanism that combines suspension and traction to immobilize, position, and align the lower extremities in the treatment of fractured femurs, hip and knee contractures, and disease processes of the hip and knee. Russell’s traction is applied as adhesive or nonadhesive skin traction and uses a sling to relieve the weight of the lower extremities subjected to traction pull. A jacket restraint is often incorporated to help immobilize the patient. Compare split Russell traction.
