Simple, self-adjustable airplane splint for axillary contractures

490 Outcomes of End of Range Axilla Splinting in Children Following Burn Injury

“…Typically, these splints immobilise the shoulder at 90 abduction, however, Manigandan et al 67,72 described axilla splints that can be adjusted up to 160 abduction. Similarly, a splint described by Gorka et al 73 can position the shoulder within an abduction range of 90-130. A high-density foam aeroplane splint for use in unconscious or sedated children post burn has also been described.…”

“…Several authors have presented descriptions of splinting devices used to manage axilla burns. 67,[72][73][74][75] These articles provide a description of splint design, materials used and fabrication. No data regarding timing of splint commencement, regime or patient outcomes were reported.…”

“…47 There is no robust research evidence supporting this opinion, with all studies investigating axilla splinting in shoulder abduction ranges greater than 90 reporting results of a case series or splint description only, with no adverse events reported. 67,72,73 Research in healthy adults has demonstrated that specific positioning across multiple joints affects tension on the peripheral nerves. 68,80,81 There is increasing strain on the ulnar and median nerves as the upper limb is positioned in a specific and sequential way from the shoulder to the digits.…”

Comparison of the Effects of Stretching and Splinting in Improving the Range of Motion and Functional Status for Prevention of Post-Burn Axillary Contracture

“…Studies have shown that approximately one-third of adult burn patients develop at least one joint contracture following their injury, with large joints such as the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee being commonly affected. Specifically, 38% of these contractures occur in the axilla and shoulder, significantly restricting the normal range of motion of the shoulder joint (4,5). Axillary contracture (AC) is particularly prevalent among young males in lower and middle-income countries, where burn injuries result in the deaths of 200,000 to 300,000 individuals annually.…”

“…Recent studies have highlighted the effectiveness of stretching in enhancing the range of motion, particularly in flexion and abduction among upper limb burn patients, thereby reducing the incidence of axillary contracture (4,14,15). Conversely, other research emphasizes the benefits of positioning patients in airplane splints to provide abduction support, which not only improves the range of motion in the shoulder but also enhances patient mobility and functional status (5,16,17). This comparative analysis aims to elucidate the relative impacts of stretching and splinting in improving shoulder range of motion in post-burn axillary contracture patients, with the ultimate goal of decreasing the development of contracture and enhancing the recovery rate and functional status of these individuals.…”