Sugar tong splint

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Background

Indications

  • Distal radius and ulnar fracture (occasionally for carpal bone fractures) [1]
  • Prevents pronation/supination, flexion/extension at the wrist, and immobilizes elbow

Procedure

Sugar Tong.gif
  • Assess distal pulse, motor, and sensation [2]
  • Apply padding and splint material (e.g. Ortho-glass) as shown (from proximal palmar crease, around elbow, to dorsum of MCP joints)
  • Wrist should be maintained in neutral forearm, slight extension (approximately 20°), and slight ulnar deviation
  • Maintain position until splint hardens and secure to arm (e.g. with ace wraps)
  • Watch for bunching of material around elbow, protect bony prominence such as elbow, ulnar styloid [3]
  • Reassess distal pulse, motor, and sensation


See Also

References

  1. German C. Hand and wrist emergencies. In: Bond M, ed. Orthopedic Emergencies: Expert Management for the Emergency Physician. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press; October 31, 2013.
  2. Splints and Casts: Indications and Methods http://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/0901/p491.html Accessed April 5, 2017
  3. Principles of Casting and Splinting http://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/0101/p16.html Accessed April 5, 2017