Regional Splints: Anterior Neck Region

Regional Splints: Anterior Neck Region

• Anticipated deformity in anterior neck region: flexion with possible lateral flexion
• Secondary problems associated with deformity:
  • Disturbance in mastication
  • Distortion of facial units
  • Difficult or hazardous intubation in subsequent reconstructive procedures

Splints for Neck Region

• Soft cervical collar:

  • Description: circumferential foam, rubber orthosis
  • Function: maintain neck in neutral position, prevent lateral flexion
  • Advantages:
    • Commercially available
    • Simple to apply and adjust
    • Comfortable
    • Lightweight
  • Disadvantages:
    • Absorbent
    • Tendency to rotate around neck
    • Minimal effectiveness for scar tissue reduction

• Molded neck splint:

  • Description: total contact rigid neck support (thermoplastic)
  • Advantages:
    • Used in 3rd phase of treatment
    • Low temperature material direct molded
    • High temp.indirect molded on patient
    • Maintain exact position, prevent rotation and lateral flexion
  • Disadvantages:
    • Occlusive
    • Skin breakdown in bony area (pressure point at clavicle and chin)

• Halo-neck splint:

  • Description: thermoplastic, puts neck in extension using head and upper torso for stabilization
  • Advantages:
    • Used in any phase of treatment
    • Allow frequent care of new skin graft
    • Permit visualization of wound
  • Disadvantages:
    • Contraindicated for deep burn over forehead
    • Strapping may cause wound breakdown
    • Doesn't prevent shortening of anterior neck secondary to opening mouth
    • Uncomfortable in supine position

• Watusi collar:

  • Description: series of cylindrical plastic tubes encircling the neck, made from thermoplastic material
  • Function: increase degree of neck extension by adding additional tubes