Extension block splinting
Dobyns, J.H.; McElfresh, E.C.
Hand Clinics 10(2): 229-237
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0749-0712 PMID: 8040201 Document Number: 433502
Extension block splinting (EBS) at the proximal interphalangeal joints of the fingers is a common technique for both primary treatment of reduced dorsal dislocations/fracture-dislocations at that joint and as a rehabilitation method following open reduction of such injuries. It is seldom realized that the method is a classic example of two orthopedic principles: stable arc splinting and early protected motion. As a primary treatment technique, following reduction of the dislocation, EBS is exemplary for an ideal group of cases, competitive for a marginal group of cases, and often unsatisfactory for a questionable group of cases. Demarcation between the groups is made, and the technique of EBS is reviewed.