The Wagner device has proved to be an extremely useful tool for controlling difficult femoral fractures. The fracture and soft tissue injury can be adequately controlled and the patient mobilized by use of the traveling traction principle. This apparatus is easily applied, and the fracture length and alignment can be readily maintained. The device has proven useful in permitting wound care and control. In the complicated polytraumatized patient it facilitates improved pulmonary care and patient hygiene. The advantage the Wagner device affords over conventional traction devices and other external fixation units makes its use a viable orthopaedic alternative.