Which of the following procedures involves skeletal traction?

Skeletal traction is a technique used to treat fractures by using pins or wires that are inserted into the bone, which are then connected to a weight or pulley system to apply continuous pulling force. This method helps to align and stabilize fractured bones, allowing them to heal properly over time.

Fracture reduction, which is the correct answer, involves restoring the normal position of fractured bones, and skeletal traction can be a part of this procedure to ensure that the bones remain in the correct alignment during the healing process. It is particularly useful for certain types of fractures, such as those of the femur or pelvis, where maintaining proper alignment is crucial.

In the other options, dislocation fixation focuses on repositioning a dislocated joint but does not typically involve the use of traction in the same way as fracture reduction. Joint aspiration involves removing fluid from a joint space, primarily for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, without the need for traction. Internal fixation refers to the surgical method of securing broken bones with devices such as plates, screws, or rods, which does not utilize traction but rather stabilizes the bones directly.

Understanding the specific applications of traction in orthopedic procedures highlights why fracture reduction is closely associated with the use of skeletal traction for effective healing.