Ulnar gutter splint

Background

Limits flexion/extension of the 4th/5th DIP, PIP, MCP, and wrist joints

Indications

Hand and finger fractures and soft tissue injuries of 4th and 5th digit
Boxer's fracture

Procedure

Assess distal pulse, motor, and sensation
Apply splinting material (e.g. Ortho-glass) as displayed
Wrist should remain slightly extended (10° to 20°) with 4th and 5th MCP at 50° to 90° flexion (the latter for Boxer's fracture) and DIP/PIP in slight flexion[1]
Place padding between 4th and 5th digits to prevent maceration
Reassess distal pulse, motor, and sensation

See Also

Splinting

References

Chudnofsky C. Splinting Techniques.In:Roberts and Hedges’ Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine, Chapter 50, 999-1027.e1

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