Precautions for finger fracture splint retention    

Finger fractures are a common hand fracture, ranking first in limb fractures. Most are caused by trauma. Finger fractures can cause local pain and swelling, and limited mobility. If the fracture of the near middle finger is significantly displaced, angular deformity, bone friction, and abnormal movement may occur locally. After a fracture of the distal phalanx, the flexion of the finger showed a typical mallet finger deformity, accompanied by extensional dysfunction. Bone friction and abnormal movement can be palpated in patients with displaced fractures. Finger fractures can be fixed with splint treatment, the following is about the time and precautions of splint fixation;

 It usually takes about 6 weeks for splinting after fracture. The specific fixation time needs to be further determined according to the degree of fracture healing. The standard healing time for adults is generally about 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, the splint can be removed for joint function exercise. However, if the fracture is not well healed and the splint removal standard is not reached, the splint should be used for a certain period of time, and conventional treatment should not exceed 3 months.

 The following points should be paid attention to when using small splints after fracture reduction:

 1. Pay attention to the blood circulation of the limbs: One of the following situations: (1) Pain worsens. (2) Numbness of hands and feet, slow response to acupuncture. (3) Restricted movement of fingers or toes of injured limbs. (5) Pale or blue hands and feet, (6) Cold limbs, indicating poor blood circulation in the limbs, should be reported to a doctor for treatment immediately.

2. Do not loosen the small splint without authorization, so as to avoid fracture displacement or fracture re-fracture.

3. Prevent the fracture from being displaced again, protect the injured limbs, and prevent the fracture from being displaced by external impact or other reasons.

4. Functional exercise: After the fracture is reset, the affected limb can be exercised according to the doctor's recommendation, such as clenching, muscle contraction and relaxation, closed joint flexion and extension, and various physical therapies to promote the disappearance of swelling and fracture healing.

 5. Regular outpatient review should be carried out at the time specified by the doctor. Usually at least once a week.

 In addition, one of the taboo principles for patients with fractures and trauma is to avoid spicy and greasy foods. After a fracture, there is often an inflammatory reaction around the fracture. Greasy and spicy stimulation can promote the generation of damp heat, aggravate inflammation, and affect fracture healing. After the splint is removed, the patient should follow the doctor's advice and return to the hospital for regular review.   

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