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