Coaptation splint

Indications

• Humerus shaft fracture

Procedure

• Assess distal pulses, motor, and sensation
• While maintaining traction, apply padding and splint material (e.g. Ortho-glass) as shown
  • Splint should extend from the medial aspect of the arm near the axilla around the elbow and up to the acromioclavicular joint
  • Use a generous amount of padding on the arm to prevent discomfort in the axilla
• Maintain position while splint material hardens and secure to arm (e.g. with ace wraps)
  • Wrap proximal to distal
• Apply sling to arm
• Reassess distal pulses, motor, and sensation

See Also

• Splinting