Radial Gutter Thumb Immobilization Splint

Use of a short arm radial gutter splint is recommended for initial immobilization of a displaced distal radial fracture.

Radial gutter thumb immobilization splint.

The final splint product will be formed based on the therapeutic goals for the client. 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. Immobilization of the thumb with a removable splint after a. Use of a short arm radial gutter splint is recommended for initial immobilization of a displaced distal radial fracture.

A thumb spica splint is essentially a radial gutter splint adapted for immobilization of the thumb. Nondisplaced fractures of the proximal phalynx of the thumb. The radial gutter design immobilizes the thumb and wrist but covers only half of the volar and half of the dorsal surfaces. After counting the layers measure the plaster from the second distal ip dip joint to the proximal third of the forearm.

Nondisplaced fractures of the first metacarpal bone. 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. The splint components fabricated in the final product will vary according to the thumb joints that are included.

A radial gutter splint is often applied for uncomplicated metacarpal fractures. Bisect the splint longitudinally from the fingertips to the wrist. Splinting common static splints tip protector splint used for distal finger injuries for protection and support. 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. When a metacarpal fracture is present a clinical examination for malrotation should also be performed. Sprain of the ulna collateral ligament dimensions dimensions are the same as for a. Measure the plaster of paris.

Then when the material hardens the edges can be popped apart and trimmed. Insert a dry gauze or cotton material between the 2nd and 3rd fingers. Use plaster that is 3 4 in. 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.

For an average sized adult a radial gutter splint should be eight to 10 layers thick.