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Radial Gutter Splint
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Other Names

Splint position for the radial gutter splint[1]

Final product of the radial gutter splint[2]
- Radial Gutter Splint
Background
- This page covers the radial gutter splint
- This prevents flexion/extension of the 2nd/3rd DIP, PIP, MCP, and wrist joints
Indications
- 2nd or 3rd proximal and middle phalanx fractures
- Nondisplaced, nonrotated
- 2nd or 3rd metacarpal fractures
- Nondisplaced fractures of the head, neck, and shaft
- Without significant angulation or rotation
- Nondisplaced Distal Radius Fracture
- Soft tissue injuries in the same distribution
Contraindications
- Absolute contraindications
- None
- Relative contraindications
- Open fractures
- Injuries with neurovascular compromise
Procedure
Equipment
- See: Splinting Materials
Preparation
- Measure splint
- Start at mid-radial forearm
- Extend down beyond distal interphalangeal joint
Technique
- Patient position
- Forearm in neutral position
- Wrist in approximately 20° of extension
- MCP flexed 50-70° (some sources say up to 90°)
- DIP and PIP slightly flexed at 5°–10°
- Stockinette
- Cut hole in stockinette for the thumb
- Extend over second and third digit up forearm
- Cast padding
- Place between 2nd and 3rd digit
- Wrap up and down forearm, sparing thumb and 4th/5th digit
- Splint application
- Apply splint folded over the radial forearm extending distally to the distal phalanx
- It should cover approximately half of the dorsal and volar surface
- Cut a hole for the thumb
- Wrap stockinette over splint and cast padding
- Apply ace wrap bandage
- Recheck neurovascular exam
Aftercare
- Try to elevate extremity for the first few days to prevent more swelling
- Advise patient to keep cast or splint clean and dry
- Do not insert objects into splint/ cast
- Monitor for complications (worsening pain, paresthesia/ numbness, color changes)
- Seek further care if unable to control pain at home
Complications
- Plaster burn/ thermal injury
- Pressure sores
- Nerve palsy
- Vascular compromise
- Splint dermatitis
- Permanent joint stiffness
See Also
References
Created by:
Jesse Fodero on 10 July 2019 18:27:36
Authors:
Last edited:
28 July 2023 15:09:12
Category: