CME OnDemand: 2022 AOFAS Annual Meeting-Biomechanical Properties of Splint Materials Immediately Following Dipping

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Splinting is a common procedure performed by orthopedic surgeons, but limited research has been done on the properties of splint materials immediately after dipping in water. This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical properties of different splint materials at different time points following dipping.<br /><br />The study compared plaster and fiberglass splints, both dipped in room temperature and warm water, using a three-point bend test. The results showed that fiberglass had higher yield load and ultimate load after three minutes compared to plaster, making it stronger. However, all ultimate loads occurred at angulations greater than 20 degrees.<br /><br />Plaster had a lower displacement at its yield load after three minutes and showed higher stiffness at 1 degree of angulation after six minutes. Temperature also increased initial stiffness in both materials at three and six minutes.<br /><br />The study also compared the maturity of stress-strain curves between plaster and fiberglass. Plaster achieved a mature curve by six minutes, while fiberglass began to mature at nine minutes but did not reach 100% maturity until twelve minutes.<br /><br />Overall, fiberglass was found to be stronger and quicker to reach ultimate load and yield load. However, plaster had better initial stiffness and less displacement at the yield point, making it suitable for limiting micromotion or achieving an exact mold with a splint.<br /><br />In conclusion, fiberglass is preferred when the strongest splint is desired, while plaster acts as a true splint more quickly. The choice between the two materials depends on the specific requirements of the splinting procedure.

Asset Subtitle

Canon C. Cornelius, Joseph Daniels, Hugo C. Garcia, Stephen J. Warner

Keywords

splinting

orthopedic surgeons

splint materials

biomechanical properties

dipping in water

plaster splints

fiberglass splints

three-point bend test

yield load

ultimate load