What injury is the CT-6 Tactical Traction Splint designed to treat?
The CT-6 is specifically designed for mid-shaft femur fractures in pre-hospital and combat environments. It applies traction to reverse muscle spasm, realign bone fragments, and reduce the hemorrhage potential space within the thigh—a critical intervention given that uncontrolled bleeding into the thigh from a femur fracture can cause 1–2 liters of blood loss contributing to hemorrhagic shock.
How does the 4:1 purchase system work?
The CT-6 uses a small traction line routed through a 4:1 mechanical advantage system. This means the provider applies one pound of pulling force to generate four pounds of traction on the limb. The result is precise, controllable traction that is manageable for providers of varying strength and can be carefully adjusted—gentle enough for standard patients yet powerful enough to overcome significant muscle contraction in large adult casualties.
Is the CT-6 suitable for use by tactical medics and combat lifesavers?
Yes. The CT-6 is deployed by U.S. Military Forces and is designed for pre-hospital care in combat scenarios. Its carbon-fiber construction keeps weight minimal while its snap-together assembly via internal bungee enables rapid field deployment. It is compatible with Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) curricula and is appropriate training equipment for combat medics, PJs, Special Forces 18-Delta medics, and tactical emergency medical support (TEMS) personnel.
How does the CT-6 prevent the ischial strap from accidentally releasing?
The ischial strap is secured with a locking buckle specifically chosen for its anti-accidental-release properties. This is the same buckle type used widely across U.S. military equipment. The buckle requires a deliberate two-step action to release, preventing inadvertent detachment during patient transport over rough terrain or vehicle movement.
What is the weight and packed size of the CT-6?
The CT-6 is extremely compact and light, with a packed kit weight of approximately 1.5 lbs. The carbon-fiber tubing collapses into a small bundle that fits within most field medical bags, trauma kits, and IFAK extensions. Its low weight and compact packed size make it practical to carry as a standard component of a medic's kit rather than a specialty item left at base.
Is the CT-6 Tactical Traction Splint included in any NAR kit systems?
Yes. The CT-6 is a standard component of the NAR-4 Aid Kit (SKU: 80-0181-s), NAR's comprehensive tactical medic pack. It can also be purchased separately for individual carry or kit resupply.
What is the CT-6's ischial strap securing mechanism?
The CT-6 uses buckle-secured ischial straps specifically selected to prevent accidental release during patient movement. The buckles are commonly used by U.S. military forces and meet the demands of vehicle CASEVAC and rotary-wing MEDEVAC environments.
Can the CT-6 be used on pediatric patients?
The CT-6 is designed for adult patients with mid-shaft femur fractures. Pediatric application requires clinical judgment and may require modified technique. Consult your medical director or TCCC protocols for pediatric traction splint guidance.
What is the CT-6's NSN and procurement pathway?
The CT-6 Tactical Traction Splint is available through North American Rescue's GSA schedule and ECAT procurement channels. Contact NAR or MED-TAC International for current NSN data, CAGE codes, and agency pricing.
How does the 4:1 purchase system on the CT-6 work?
A small line threaded through a 4:1 mechanical advantage system applies traction by multiplying the operator's pulling force by a factor of four. This enables precise, adjustable traction that is powerful enough for large adults without the coarse increments of ratchet-based systems.
