Small Animal Ortho: External Coaptation Flashcards
What are the reasons for external coaptation?
decrease further soft tissue trauma
decrease limb edema
temporary/primary means of fixation
support
wound protection
What are the complications associated with external coaptation?
Sores
non-unions
necrosis
excessive swelling due to incorrect technique
How can we avoid complications associated with external coaptation?
proper bandaging technique
owner compliance
communication
What are the bandaging layers?
1) telfa/adaptic
2) triple antibiotic ointment/vasaline
3) cast padding
4) cling wrap
5) vetrap
What are the rules for proper bandaging technique?
Always start from distal to proximal
even tension
50% overlap
nails of 3rd & 4th are visible
What are the uses for casts?
below the elbow & below stifle
primary fracture stabilization
supplemental internal fixation
What are the indications for casts?
high fracture score
quick uncomplicated healing ~ 6 weeks
What are the rules for placing casts?
closed fractures
no soft tissue trauma
joint proximal and distal
extend distal to toes
50% cortical contact
no excessive padding
What are the various types of bandages?
Robert jones
Modified Robert jones
Soft padded bandage
Metal spoon splint
Side splint
Custom splint
Spica splint
Ehmer slings
Valpeau
What is a Robert Jones bandage?
support fractures: distal elbow & distal femur
for compression & swelling
dead space
uses rolled cotton as primary layer
What is a Modified Robert Jones bandage?
most often used following orthopedic surger
same functions as a Robert Jones
not as supportive
uses cast padding as primary layer
What is a soft padded bandage?
Wound coverage not for compression
not supportive
thin bandage
What is a metal spoon splint bandage?
Support to injuries below the elbow & stifle
primary fixation
most commonly used on antebrachium
placed caudally
What is a side splint bandage?
most commonly used tibia/fibula fractures & radius/ulna fractures
laterally placed
What is a custom splint?
Fiberglass cast material
must use the same amt. of material for padded bandage
