Coaptation splint

Background

Indications

Procedure

Coaption splint construction. See splint-specific details section.

Splint Application General Procedure

  • Assess pre-procedure neurovascular status (i.e., distal pulse, motor, and sensation) [2]
  • Measure and prepare the splinting material
    • May use contralateral extremity if easier
    • Most splints use a width slightly greater than the diameter of the limb
  • Apply stockinette (if applicable)
    • Extend 2" beyond estimated the splinting material length
  • Apply padding (if applicable)
    • Use 2–3 layers over the area to be splinted / between digits (when applicable)
    • Add an extra 2–3 layers over bony prominences
  • Apply splinting material
    • Lightly moisten the splinting material.
    • Place as appropriate to specific splint type
    • Once finished, if applicable fold the ends of stockinette back over the splinting material if there is excess
  • Apply elastic bandaging (e.g., ace wrap)
  • While still wet
    • May further mold the splint to the desired shape
    • Maintain position until splint material has hardened
  • Re-check and document repeat neurovascular status

Splint-Specific Details

  • Apply padding and splint material as shown in figure, followed by sling
  • Splint course:
    • While maintaining traction, apply padding and splint material as shown
    • Splint should extend from the medial aspect of the arm near the axilla around the elbow and up to the acromioclavicular joint
    • Use a generous amount of padding on the arm to prevent discomfort in the axilla
  • Maintain position while splint material hardens and secure to arm (e.g. with ace wraps)
    • Wrap proximal to distal
    • Apply sling to arm
  • Key anatomic positions

See Also

References

  1. Bounds EJ, et al. StatPearls. Humeral Shaft Fractures. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-.
  2. Splints and Casts: Indications and Methods. http://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/0901/p491.html Accessed April 5, 2017