Radial Gutter Thumb Immobilization Splint

Immobilization of the thumb with a removable splint after a.

Radial gutter thumb immobilization splint.

Use of a short arm radial gutter splint is recommended for initial immobilization of a displaced distal radial fracture. The radial gutter splint provides both volar and dorsal splint immobilization of these metacarpal injuries. With the second through fifth fingers slightly flexed the nail beds of adjacent fingers should lie in the same plane. Measure the plaster of paris.

The final splint product will be formed based on the therapeutic goals for the client. The radial gutter design immobilizes the thumb and wrist but covers only half of the volar and half of the dorsal surfaces. Nondisplaced fractures of the first metacarpal bone. Then when the material hardens the edges can be popped apart and trimmed.

When a metacarpal fracture is present a clinical examination for malrotation should also be performed. Cut out a 3 or 4 inch splint material to the length necessary to immobilize the wrist and mcp joint. Orfit industries now offers pre cut wrist thumb immobilization orthoses in four excellent colors and instructions in our educational corner. The splint components fabricated in the final product will vary according to the thumb joints that are included.

A thumb spica splint is essentially a radial gutter splint adapted for immobilization of the thumb. Use plaster that is 3 4 in. Nondisplaced fractures of the proximal phalynx of the thumb. Bisect the splint longitudinally from the fingertips to the wrist.

For an average sized adult a radial gutter splint should be eight to 10 layers thick. Radial gutter splint thumb spica splint indications l fractures and soft tissue injuries of 5th digit l fractures of the neck shaft and base of 4th and 5th metacarpals construction l start at mid forearm l extend down ulnar forearm l end at mid distal phalanx l include the 4th and 5th digits application l hand in position of function l. After counting the layers measure the plaster from the second distal ip dip joint to the proximal third of the forearm. The therapist should have a good understanding of the purpose and the fabrication process.

Use of a short arm radial gutter splint is recommended for initial immobilization of a displaced distal radial fracture. Splinting common static splints tip protector splint used for distal finger injuries for protection and support. Figure 8 3 a radial gutter thumb immobilization splint. Dip extension splint used for distal finger injuries for protection and support percutaneous pinning at distal finger dip hyperextension splint mallet fingers ulnar radial gutter splint used for fractures of the hand.

B 11 rct immobilization of the thumb with a removable splint after a.