Splintingin Orthopaedic Practice

Dept. of Orthopaedic & TraumatologyHasan Sadikin HospitalFac. Of MedicinePadjadjaran University

Introduction

Splinting for musculoskeletal system: Soft Tissue Hard Tissue

Aim: Immobilization: e.g. fracture of the limbs Prevent deformity: e.g. nerve palsy After treatment: e.g. tendon repair

Introduction

Fracture treatment: Reduction Immobilization Exercise

Immobilization: Temporary Definitive

Temporary Immobilization

Aim: Reduce pain Prevent further soft tissue damage

Purpose: Transportation Prior definitive treatment: e.g. surgery

Method of Temporary Immobilization Splinting Traction

Types of Splint

Wood splint Plaster splint: e.g. slab Pneumatic air splint PASG: Pneumatic Anti Shock Garment

Wood Splint

Wooden block Elastic bandage (Sterile) gauze: for open fracture

Splint Application

Before: Check pulse & sensation (distal part)

Application: In line traction Wood splint placement (two joints) ± gauze (for open fracture) Roll the elastic bandage (distal to proximal)

After: Check pulse & sensation (distal part)

Note: write on medical record !

Two Joints

Splint Application

No pulse after splinting: Loosen the bandage Try to re-align the limb

Beware: compartment syndrome !

Soft Tissue Splinting

Air Splint

Trauma Scene