Novamed · Orthopaedic products

Balkan frame traction systems for the hospital bed

A Balkan frame is a metal structure fixed to the patient's bed which, using cords, pulleys and weights, applies controlled traction to the limbs, pelvis and spine. Novamed S.R.L. supplies ten configurations, for adults and children.

  • 10 configurations
  • Adult and paediatric patients
  • Delivery throughout Italy
How it works

What is Balkan frame traction?

Balkan frame traction is an orthopaedic treatment in which a frame is mounted on the hospital bed to support pulleys and weights that apply a graduated force to a part of the body, in order to lengthen and align musculoskeletal structures.

The traction frame is made of robust materials and is adjustable, so clinical staff can adapt the position and intensity of traction to the part being treated, the size of the patient and the severity of the condition. The mechanism varies with the area of the body: cords and pulleys with weights, stirrups attached to transskeletal wires, slings, pelvic belts or forearm supports.

In orthopaedic and trauma wards and in rehabilitation facilities, traction on a Balkan frame is used to reduce pain, improve mobility, correct deformities and help restore impaired function. It is a non-invasive treatment that allows precise control of the force applied.

Indications

When is a Balkan frame used?

Balkan frame traction systems are used in hospital and rehabilitation settings to treat fractures, dislocations, severe sprains, non-unions and bone deformities in adult and paediatric patients.

Long bone fractures

Femur, tibia and humerus, where traction keeps the bone segments aligned during the hospital stay.

Dislocations and severe sprains

Joint dislocations and major sprains that require stability and offloading of the joint.

Non-unions and bone deformities

Fractures that have not healed correctly and skeletal deformities that need to be corrected gradually.

Traction frames can act on the spine, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips and knees. Each configuration is designed for a specific area of the body, which is why the catalogue includes simple frames, overhead frames and dedicated systems.

Catalogue

Balkan frame traction models

For each frame we give the catalogue code. Prices and full data sheets are available on request.

Simple Balkan frame, the basic structure for upper limb traction
Code 110.0001

Simple Balkan frame

A support frame for upper limb traction systems and, more generally, for traction on small to medium-sized patients. It provides a stable base during the treatment of various orthopaedic conditions.

Overhead Balkan frame for traction on patients with multiple injuries
Code 110.0002

Overhead Balkan frame

Suitable for patients with multiple injuries and complex conditions who need several types of traction at once, for example on the pelvis, upper limb and lower limb. The overhead structure gives greater stability when more than one traction is applied.

Balkan frame for lateral traction of the humerus with hand support
Code 110.0003

Frame for lateral traction of the humerus

For specific conditions of the humerus that require lateral traction. A hand support, or an equivalent system, holds the forearm upright; the stirrup attached to the transskeletal wires is placed under traction with cords, pulleys and weights.

Balkan frame for pelvic traction with a sling
Code 110.0004

Frame for pelvic traction

A system for pelvic conditions, available in two versions depending on the patient's size: with an overhead frame with 2 horizontal bars or with a simple frame.

  • One or two adjustable clamps
  • Sling tension adjusted with a handwheel
Adjustable Balkan frame for lower limb traction
Code 110.0006

Frame for lower limb traction

A device for lower limb conditions treated with controlled traction. It provides support and stability during therapy and can be adjusted to the patient's needs.

Balkan frame for traction of the cervical region
Code 110.0007

Frame for cervical traction

A frame for applying controlled traction to the cervical region, with the aim of relieving pain and improving mobility. Its shape fits around the patient's neck and the intensity of traction is adjusted to the individual case.

Balkan frame for lumbar traction with a pelvic belt
Code 110.0008

Frame for lumbar traction with a pelvic belt

A system for conditions of the lumbar region: targeted traction of the lumbar vertebrae is applied through an adjustable pelvic corset, with a structure designed for patient comfort and safety.

Balkan frame with arm support for traction of the humerus
Code 110.0011

Frame for humerus traction with arm support

For conditions of the humerus. It includes a support surface connected to a vertical bar and a traction stirrup attached to the transskeletal wires; the force is applied by cords and pulleys with weights.

Paediatric Balkan frame system for hip traction in children
Code 110.0058

Frame for paediatric hip traction

Designed for hip conditions in paediatric patients, with dimensions suited to a child. It applies targeted, gentle traction and provides comfortable support during treatment.

Suspended Zuppinger frame attached to the footboard, an accessory to the Balkan frame for lower limbs
Code 100.1027

Suspended Zuppinger frame for lower limb traction

A tubular frame that anchors to the footboard and allows a lower limb traction frame to be attached so that it remains suspended above the bed. It is fixed to the bed frame at the bottom and to the handrail at the top with a screw system.

  • Adjustable attachment height
  • 4 adjustable rubber-coated contact points
  • 2 swivelling pulleys for the cord connected to the weights
Choosing

How to choose a Balkan frame traction system

The choice depends on the area to be treated, the number of tractions to be applied at the same time, the size of the patient and the bed on which the frame will be mounted.

Area and number of tractions

For a single traction on a small to medium-sized patient, the simple frame is sufficient; when several tractions are needed together, as in multiple trauma, the overhead frame provides the necessary stability.

Compatibility with the bed

The frame is fixed to the hospital bed, so it is advisable to check the structure, footboard and handrail before ordering. The traction frame can be combined with our manual and electric ward beds.

Our technicians can help you identify the right Balkan frame configuration for your ward. Official information on the regulation of medical devices in Italy is available on the website of the Italian Ministry of Health.

FAQ

Questions about Balkan frame traction

Can Balkan frame traction be used on children?

Yes. The systems adapt to the size of the patient and the catalogue includes a frame dedicated to paediatric hip traction, code 110.0058.

What is the difference between a simple and an overhead frame?

The simple frame (110.0001) is suitable for traction on small to medium-sized patients; the overhead frame (110.0002) is designed for patients with multiple injuries who need several tractions at once.

What is the Zuppinger frame for?

The suspended Zuppinger frame (100.1027) attaches to the footboard and supports a lower limb traction frame suspended above the bed, with two swivelling pulleys for the weight cord.

How can I get a price and data sheet?

Contact Novamed S.R.L., based in Villafranca Tirrena (Messina, Italy): we will reply with a price and data sheet, and we deliver throughout Italy.

Do you need a traction system for your ward?

Tell us the area to be treated with the Balkan frame and the bed in use: we will send you the price and data sheet for the right configuration.

Contact Novamed