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3. Sugar-Tong Splint

Indications:

• Distal radius fractures (Colles' or Smith’s fractures)
• Post-reduction immobilization of unstable wrist fractures
• Forearm fractures requiring limited pronation/supination

Application Steps:

1. Prepare the Limb:
o Position the elbow at 90 degrees flexion with the forearm neutral.
o Ensure the hand is in a relaxed position.
2. Apply Padding and Stockinette:
o Begin at the metacarpals and extend above the elbow.
o Use extra padding at pressure points (ulnar styloid, radial head, olecranon).
3. Apply Splint Material:
o Use plaster or fiberglass, wrapping from the dorsal hand around the elbow and
terminating at the palmar surface.
o Secure with elastic bandages, avoiding excessive compression.
4. Final Adjustments:
o Ensure adequate room for swelling and proper immobilization of the forearm.
o Instruct the patient on elevating the arm and monitoring for neurovascular
changes.

• Indications:
o Distal radius fractures requiring limited pronation/supination.
• Application Steps:

1. Wrap padding around the forearm.
2. Apply U-shaped splint extending from dorsal hand to the elbow.
3. Secure with bandages, leaving room for swelling.

Lower Extremity Casting and Splinting Techniques

1. Short Leg Cast

• Indications:
o Ankle fractures and sprains
o Metatarsal fractures
• Application Steps:

1. Apply stockinette and padding up to the tibial tuberosity.
2. Wrap casting material from toes to mid-calf.