Thumb spica splint

Background
  • Notching the splinting material (shown) prevents buckling when wrapping around thumb.

Indications
  • Scaphoid fracture - seen or suspected (check snuffbox tenderness)
  • De Quervain tenosynovitis / other ligamentous or soft tissue injuries to thumb
  • Nonangulated, nondisplaced, extra-articular fractures of the base of the first metacarpal [1]

Procedure
  • Assess distal pulse, motor, and sensation
  • Apply padding and splint material (e.g. Ortho-glass) to the radial aspect of the forearm and covering the thumb as shown
    • Wrist should be in slight extension (approximately 20°) with thumb in functional position (ask patient to envision "holding a soda can")
  • Maintain positioning until splint material hardens and secure splint to forearm
  • Reassess distal pulse, motor, and sensation

See Also

References
  1. Splints and Casts: Indications and Methods http://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/0901/p491.html Accessed April 6, 2017
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