Small animal bandaging techniques

Question 1

Identify this bandage and explain its use

Answer 1

Immobilising bandage
Robert Jones bandage

Good for fractured long bones and immediate post surgical protection of repair to long bones and other fractures

Question 2

Identify this bandage and explain its use

Answer 2

Gutter splints

Stabilising techniques in fractures below carpus & hock, used in smaller dogs and cats, need padding material and tertiary layer

Question 3

Identify these bandages and explain their use

Answer 3

on stable fractures of long bones, oblique fractures or where there is complete bone to act as splint (e.g. fractured radius + complete ulna), padding needed to prevent rubbing

Question 4

Why do we need bandages?

Answer 4

Aid to ongoing healing of wound, surgical site or event of first aid

By bandaging area we can help stabilise wound surface (preventing disruption of healing response of body) & protect it from trauma or contamination

Question 5

Describe the different sections of bandage

Answer 5

1. dressing
   - In contact layer
   - most important as it aids healing & protects it

2a. Padding/supportive
- provides comfort while bandage is in place
- absorbs excessive exudate
- must be thick enough to prevent strikethrough

2b.Open weave/conforming bandage
- provides light pressure, protection
- absorbs some exudate (don’t make this too tight as it causes restriction & discomfort)

3. Cohesive layer
   - Holds others in place
   provides protection
   - Tightens on application so take care

Question 6

Describe some different types of wound dressings

Answer 6

Dry
- sterile clean swabs applied directly to wound
- useful for debridement of wound if surgical intervention is not needed

Impregnated
- have something on them to facilitate wound healing (e.g. petroleum or antibiotics)
- can be used on superficial open wounds that may be infected or dirty

Semi-occlusive
- nonstick material with central absorbent core
- Good for short term post surgical closures

Absorbent
- padded
- designed to absorb different amounts of exudate from large wounds
- maintain moist wound healing area

Alginate
- made from seaweed or kelp
- can be moistened & applied to wound that has become static
- help encourage release of inflammatory factors that will help reinstate process
- Become dry & sticky so remove with saline

Topical wound gels
- keep wound moist while drawing away excess exudate into absorbent dressing above
- Also used when you have large cavity that no other dressing fits into

Question 7

what are some common problems seen with bandaging

Answer 7

Swelling, tissue necrosis & Jupiter ulcers due to poor bandaging technique or use of incorrect material

Ring dressings seen in centre of picture,
can be used to protect bony prominences, but can also
lead to pressure in other locations if not used properly &
changed regularly.

Question 8

How far should a limb be bandaged?

Answer 8

1 joint above and below the injury to provide the best stability

Question 9

Answer 9

Support healing wounds, Protect against further injury, Prevent or control swelling