What distinguishes skeletal traction from skin traction?

Skeletal traction is distinguished from skin traction primarily by the method of application involving pins or wires that are directly inserted into the bone. This technique allows for a more precise force to be applied to the skeletal system, facilitating better alignment and stabilization of fractures or other musculoskeletal issues.

The use of pins or wires means that skeletal traction can handle heavier weights and provides stronger corrective forces than skin traction, which relies on adhesive materials applied to the skin surface to achieve traction. This can often lead to less effective outcomes in certain cases since the force applied in skin traction may not be sufficient to manipulate the skeletal structure effectively. Hence, the correct choice highlights the invasive nature of skeletal traction as it involves surgical intervention to insert devices directly into the bone, contrasting with skin traction that is non-invasive and applied externally.