ORTHOPEDIC IMMOBILIZATION TECHNIQUES.pptx

ORTHOPEDIC IMMOBILIZATION TE

1. ORTHOPEDIC IMMOBILIZATION TECHNIQUES ODOJE EDWIN, BScN.RN

2. Objectives At the end of the lesson, the learner should be able to: 1 .Define orthopedic immobilization 2. State the purposes of mechanical immobilization 3. Describe the types of casts used in immobilization 4. Demonstrate the steps in application of a cast

3. Introduction Orthopedic immobilization techniques are methods used to restrict movement of injured or unstable body parts to promote healing and prevent further damage. These techniques are commonly employed in the field of orthopedics, which deals with the musculoskeletal system

4. Cause of physical immobility Debilitating conditions Traumatic Injury Treatment for a traumatic injury (use of slings, casts, traction, external fixators). Orthoses - Orthopedic devices which support or align a body part and prevent or correct deformities. Splints Immobilizers Braces

5. Conditions that benefit from immobilization Fractures Sprains Severe soft-tissue injuries Reduced joint dislocations Inflammatory conditions: arthritis, tendinopathy , tenosynovitis Deep laceration repairs across joints Tendon lacerations

6. Purposes of Mechanical Immobilization Relief of pain Supports and aligns skeletal injuries Restricts movement while injuries heal Prevents further structural damage and deformity

7. Characteristics of an Ideal Cast

8. Indications for casting Casts are used for a variety of reasons: In the treatment of fractures After surgery To correct deformities For support To provide pain relief To aid in the healing of pressure sores.

9. key principles of cast application Before applying a cast, a thorough assessment and diagnosis of the injury are essential. This includes X-rays and other imaging studies to determine the extent and nature of the injury. Proper positioning of the patient is crucial for a successful cast application. The patient should be comfortable and the injured limb should be in the correct anatomical position for healing.

10. Principles ct.. The skin over the injured area should be clean and dry before applying the cast. Any open wounds or cuts should be appropriately managed, and the skin should be checked for any signs of infection. Soft padding, usually made of cotton or synthetic materials, is applied to the skin to protect it from the rigid cast material. This padding also helps distribute pressure evenly and reduces the risk of pressure sores.

11. Principles.. Choosing the Right Material-Casts can be made from various materials, including plaster of Paris and fiberglass. The choice of material depends on factors such as the type and location of the injury, the required level of support, and the patient's lifestyle. Proper Application technique is crucial to ensure the cast is applied evenly and molds to the contours of the patient's body

12. Cast Removal Casts are most often removed when they need to be changed and reapplied, or when the injury has healed. A cast is removed prematurely if complications develop. Most casts are removed with an electric cast cutter (an instrument that looks like a circular saw.) A cast cutter can cause anxiety with the client, but proper use leaves the skin intact. A physician is trained in proper cast cutting techniques, medical assistants, physician assistants are also qualified to perform cast cutting. When the cast is removed it is normal to see the muscle has shrunk down due to inactivity and is weaker. The joints may have limited ROM. The skin may look pale and waxy and may contain dry, dead skin.

13. Complications of Casting Compartment syndrome thermal injuries pressure sores skin infection and dermatitis joint stiffness Neurologic injury