Sugar tong splint

Indications

• Distal radius and ulnar fracture (occasionally for carpal bone fractures)
• Prevents pronation/supination, flexion/extension at the wrist, and immobilizes elbow

Procedure

• Assess distal pulse, motor, and sensation
• Apply padding and splint material (e.g. Ortho-glass) as shown (from dorsum of hand, around elbow, to volar surface of hand)
  • Wrist should be maintained in slight extension (approximately 20°), and slight ulnar deviation
• Maintain position until splint hardens and secure to arm (e.g. with ace wraps)
• Watch for bunching of material around elbow, protect bony prominence such as elbow, ulnar styloid
• Reassess distal pulse, motor, and sensation

See Also

• Splinting