Splint and cast orthopedic surgery

BAU

1. What is a splint? A splint is a rigid support with padding made from metal,plaster,plastic.It is used to support,protect or immobilize an injured or inflamed part of the body.The purpose of the splint is to prevent movement of the injured extremity which helps prevent further injury,and to minimize pain.

2. What is a cast? An orthopedic cast,or simply cast,is a shell,frequently made from plaster or fiberglass,encasing a limb to stabilize and hold anatomical structures,most often a broken bone in place until healing is confirmed.

3. Difference between splint and cast Casts provide more support and protection than splints for a limb that is broken or injured. Splints are easier and faster to use. They also can be tightened or loosened easily if the swelling in limb decrease or increase

4. Indications of splints and casts Fractures Sprains Joint infections Acute arthritis Lacerations over joints Puncture wound and animal bites on limb

5. Indications of splints and casts To reduce or prevent contracture To stabilize and rest joint in ligamentous injury To correct deformity To support and immobilize joint and limbs postoperatively

6. Splinting materials Modified Thomas splint Metal Spoon splint PVC pipe splint Bamboo splint Spoon splint

7. Casting materials Plaster of P aris Synthetically based fiberglass

8. Limitations of splints and casts Pressure sores Skin breakdown is most common complication Cast that are applied too tight without proper padding will lead to pressure sores over bony prominences Loosening and distal migration of casts will lead to friction and blisters

9. Limitations of splints and casts Burns Setting of plaster is an exothermic reaction In patient with sensitive skin this exothermic reaction can cause burs if not adequetly padded Dermatitis Distal edema

10. Limitations of splints and casts Joint stiffness Muscle atrophy Malpositions /Displacement Deep vein thrombosis