Overview

An individual can suffer from a fractured bone due to an external injury such as an accident, a fall from a height, or while playing a sport and unconsciously hurting oneself. A splint helps to keep the broken bones aligned to avoid any injury or to worsen the situation. Fracture splinting is also known as half cast to support the broken and misaligned bones. The splints are of different types as well. However, they might not be as comfortable as a cast but help support broken bones.

Fracture splinting is a medical procedure temporarily immobilising and stabilising a broken bone. It involves applying a splint, a rigid or semi-rigid device, to the injured limb to prevent movement at the fracture site. Splinting helps reduce pain, prevent further damage to surrounding tissues, and facilitate proper healing. It is typically done in emergencies before the patient undergoes definitive treatment, such as casting or surgery. Splints can be made of various materials, such as plaster, fibreglass, or padded metal, and are customised to fit the specific fracture and patient's needs.

When is fracture casting splinting used?

- Broken Bones- A broken bone's ends are sharp and may damage the skin and the deep tissues. If these pointed ends are not handled properly, the situation may worsen. The doctor uses a splint to support the bones and avoid the sharp ends damaging the skin or the tissues.
- Sprains- A splint also helps to support sprain and avoid any pain or discomfort due to injured and fractured bone. A patient may suffer due to sprain and dislocation of bones caused due to an injury. A splint helps to keep the bones aligned and intact. Hence, it helps in the speedy recovery of the injured individual.
- Ruptured Tendon- A splint also helps to recover from ruptured tendons. The tendons can be ruptured due to a broken bone damaging the tissue or other internal injuries. The splint helps to lower the pain caused due to the fractured bone irritating the soft tissues leading to immobility of the injured joint.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome- It is a medical situation in which the affected individual's hands, arms, and fingers feel a tingling sensation due to an injury in nerves or any other similar issue. A splint helps keep the injured joints in a neutral position to avoid bone injury. It may be difficult for the patient to have a peaceful sleep when a lot of unexpected hand movement is observed.
- Immobilisation during healing: It helps immobilise the fractured bone during the healing process to prevent movement that could disrupt the healing process.
- Non-surgical cases- Casting splinting is preferred for certain fractures that can heal without surgery.
- How is a splint applied?- Applying a splint typically involves the following steps:
- Assessing the Injury- A healthcare professional assesses the injury and determines the appropriate type and size of splint based on the location and nature of the injury.
- Correct Positioning- The injured limb is positioned in a way that provides comfort and alignment. If there is an open wound, the wound is cleaned and dressed before splinting.
- Padding- Soft padding, such as cotton or gauze, is placed around the injured area to protect the skin and provide cushioning.
- Applying the splint- The splinting material, such as plaster, fibreglass, or padded metal, is carefully applied around the injured area. The splint should be snug but not too tight to allow for swelling.
- Securing the splint- Straps or bandages are used to secure the splint in place. The splint should be firmly held but not so tight to interfere with blood circulation.
- Reassessing- After applying the splint, the healthcare professional reevaluates the limb's circulation, sensation, and movement to ensure no complications.

Splint Care Guidelines

Mentioned below are the guidelines advised by a doctor to be followed for a speedy recovery:

- It is advised to keep the cast for the fracture elevated. It helps to avoid excessive swelling and pain.
- Icing reduces swelling in the area around a splint by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow. This helps to decrease inflammation and fluid buildup, alleviating pain and promoting faster healing. Hence, icing the affected area every 2 to 3 hours is advisable.
- The slow movement of the limb or fingers or toes of the limb is advised to ensure proper blood flow.
- It is advised to avoid wetting of splint with water, oils, or lotions.
- No stick or pointed object should be inserted inside the splint to scratch the area.

Possible Complications of a Splint

Mentioned below are some of the medical issues that can be observed after a splint is applied:

- Skin irritation
- Burns
- Compartment syndrome
- Restricted bone movement
- Joint stiffness

How is a fracture splinting removed?

A splint or a cast is removed when the injured bones inside are completely healed and do not cause any pain during movement. A special saw cuts through the cast or a splint, ensuring the saw's blade does not damage the skin. The instrument helps to cut the splint from both ends for easy removal of the protective layer. Later the stockinette used under the cast or splint is cut with the help of scissors.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Ortho doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Fracture splinting helps to keep the immobilised bones aligned and is also helpful in avoiding any further injury. The cast or splint also helps recover the damaged or dislocated bones to avoid damage to the nearby soft tissues.

FAQs

Q. What is fracture splinting? A. A splint or cast is an orthopaedic procedure to align the broken or dislocated bones. The procedure helps to lower the pain and avoid any other injury that can be caused after unnecessary movement of the broken joint.

Q. Who needs fracture splinting? A. A cast or a splint may be required for an individual suffering from broken bones, sprains, dislocated bones, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other similar medical issues.

Q. What are tips advised to take care of a splint or a cast? A. For proper care of a cast or a splint, it is advised to keep them dry, avoid contact with water or any wet products near the splint, and ice the area to avoid swelling.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/discectomy-procedure-risks-post-surgery-care/
- https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/what-to-know-splints
- https://www.stjohnvic.com.au/news/what-is-a-splint-and-how-to-make-one/