A4570 - Splint Procedure

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Splint
• Technical/Medical Term: Orthopedic splint application

Summary

A splint is a device used to immobilize and support a body part, often following an injury or surgery. It helps to keep the affected area in place to ensure proper healing.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Fractures, sprains, strains, post-operative support, and other musculoskeletal injuries.
• Goals: To immobilize the injured area, prevent further injury, reduce pain, and promote proper healing.

Indications

• Symptoms/Conditions: Acute fractures, severe sprains, joint dislocations, soft tissue injuries, and post-operative protection.
• Patient Criteria: Those experiencing pain, swelling, or instability in an injured area that requires immobilization.

Preparation

• Instructions: No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
• Diagnostic Tests: X-rays or other imaging studies may be necessary to ascertain the extent of the injury.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: The healthcare provider evaluates the injury and decides on the type of splint needed.
2. Preparation: The injured area is cleaned and, if necessary, covered with a protective layer of padding.
3. Application: The splint material is molded and applied around the injury. It may be made of plaster, fiberglass, or thermoplastic materials.
4. Securing the Splint: The splint is secured with bandages or wraps to maintain immobilization.
5. Adjustment: The fit of the splint is checked to ensure it is snug but not too tight.

• Tools/Equipment: Splinting materials (plaster, fiberglass, thermoplastic), bandages, padding.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Generally not required; local anesthesia may be used if pain management is needed during application.

Duration

• Typical Duration: 20 to 30 minutes.

Setting

• Performed At: Hospital emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, or physician offices.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals: Physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, orthopedic technicians.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Skin irritation, swelling, discomfort.
• Rare Risks: Compartment syndrome, pressure sores, reduced blood flow.
• Management: Regular monitoring, adjustment of the splint, prompt medical attention for severe symptoms.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Immobilization of the injury, reduced pain, protection and stabilization of the affected area.
• Timeframe: Immediate immobilization with pain relief typically within a few hours.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Keep the splint dry and clean, avoid putting pressure on the splint, follow-up with healthcare provider as directed.
• Recovery Time: Varies depending on the injury; typically a few weeks to several months.
• Restrictions: Limited use of the affected limb or area, follow specific activity restrictions as advised by healthcare provider.
• Follow-up: Regular check-ups to monitor healing and adjust the splint if necessary.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Casts, braces, surgical intervention, physical therapy.
• Pros and Cons: Splints are less restrictive and easier to remove compared to casts but may provide less stability.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Might feel some discomfort or mild pain during the fitting process.
• After Procedure: Gradual reduction in pain as the splint immobilizes the injury; might experience itching or pressure which can be managed by repositioning or adjusting the splint.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, elevation of the injured limb, and ice packs as recommended by the healthcare provider.