Buck’s skin traction [Gurdon Buck] , an orthopedic procedure that applies traction to the lower extremity with the hips and the knees extended. It is used in the treatment of hip and knee contractures, in postoperative positioning and immobilization, and in disease processes of the hip and the knee. It is also used to maintain alignment of the hip and leg in patients with hip fractures until reduction of the hip can be performed. This type of traction may be unilateral, involving one leg, or bilateral, involving both legs.
