Cast Supplies, Short Arm Splint, Adult (11 years +), Fiberglass (Q4022)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Short Arm Splint
• Technical/Medical Term: Fiberglass Short Arm Splint for Adults

Summary

A short arm splint made of fiberglass is a supportive device used to immobilize and protect the lower arm, from the elbow to the wrist, allowing it to heal after injuries like fractures or sprains. It is designed for adults and ensures stability and protection during the recovery period.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: Fractures, severe sprains, tendon injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, and post-surgical immobilization.
• Goals: To immobilize the lower arm to allow proper healing, reduce pain, minimize swelling, and prevent further injury.

Indications

• Symptoms/Conditions: Pain, swelling, difficulty moving the lower arm or wrist, visible deformity after an injury.
• Patient Criteria: Adults aged 11 years or older with confirmed lower arm injuries or conditions requiring immobilization.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: No specific fasting or medication adjustments usually required. Keep the area clean.
• Assessment: Physical examination, X-rays or other imaging tests to assess the injury.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The healthcare provider will assess the injury and choose the appropriate size of the splint.
2. Positioning: The patient's arm is positioned comfortably.
3. Padding: A layer of soft padding is applied to protect the skin.
4. Application: The fiberglass splint material is dampened and molded around the lower arm, from the elbow to the wrist.
5. Setting: The fiberglass hardens and forms a rigid support within a few minutes.

• Tools/Technology: Fiberglass splint material, padding, bandages, scissors.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically not required, but a local anesthetic may be used if the application is painful.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

• Performed in an outpatient clinic, emergency room, or doctor's office.

Personnel

• Healthcare professionals involved may include an orthopedic surgeon, an emergency physician, nurses, or a physician assistant.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Skin irritation, pressure sores, itching.
• Rare Risks: Compartment syndrome, dermatitis, allergic reactions.
• Management: Regular follow-up visits to monitor for complications and ensure proper healing.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Proper immobilization for healing, pain relief, protection from further injury.
• Timeline: Benefits are typically realized immediately upon application.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Keep the splint dry, do not insert objects for scratching, follow-up appointments for adjustment and removal.
• Recovery Time: Depends on the severity of the injury, generally 4-6 weeks.
• Restrictions: Avoid activities that could stress the injured arm, follow medical advice strictly.

Alternatives

• Alternative Options: Plaster splint, removable brace, surgery (for severe fractures).
• Pros and Cons: Fiberglass splints are lighter and more durable compared to plaster but may be more expensive. Removable braces offer convenience but less support.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Mild discomfort while the splint is being applied.
• After Procedure: Initial adjustment period with some itching or discomfort, but generally manageable with over-the-counter pain relief measures. Followed by a period of wearing the splint while the arm heals.