How to Make a Bivalve Splint

A bivalve splint is a traditional spinal orthopedic aid that is worn like a jacket. The bivalve splint can be made from plaster but preferably plastic. The splint supports the patient, improving her posture and relieving spinal pressure. One type of spinal weakness requiring a bivalve splint occurs with the symptoms of Pott's Disease, which include tuberculosis arthritis of the spine. The main disadvantage of a bivalve splint is that it easily can become unhygienic if not maintained properly.

Things You'll Need

• Crinoline, 8 to 10 thickness
• Craft knife
• 2 felt pads

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Instructions

Posterior Valve

• 1

  Construct a paper pattern for the posterior valve of your patient. Allow an extra inch for folding.

• 2

  Cut your 8 or 10 thickness crinoline in the posterior valve shape using your paper template. Supporting the patient face down by her pelvis and sternum, dip the crinoline into warm, liquid plaster cream.

• 3

  Place the large felt pad on the inside of the valve. Fold the edges back, put the jacket on your patient and allow to set.

Anterior Valve

• 4

  Construct a paper pattern for your patient's anterior valve. Allow an extra inch for folding.

• 5

  Cut the 8 or 10 thickness crinoline for the anterior valve shape using your paper template. Supporting the patient face up by her neck and back, dip the crinoline into the warm, liquid plaster cream.

• 6

  Place your large felt pad on the inside of the valve. Fold the edges back, put the jacket on your patient and allow to set.