What Is a Gutter Splint?

A gutter splint is a rigid, trough-shaped piece of wood or metal used to support and immobilize an injured body part without enclosing it completely. It can be applied anywhere, from a whole leg to a single finger.

Construction

• Some prefabricated gutter splints can be obtained, such as an ulnar gutter splint for an arm. Most often, however, they are made as needed from wood, metal, padding and tape. The splint is custom-fitted and secured to the site with elastic bandage.

Splint Versus Cast

• A gutter splint is used instead of a cast when there is danger of increased swelling and possible circulatory compromise, or when access to an open wound is required. A gutter splint can be removed for short periods of time for treatment or exercise, while a cast stays on all the time.

Contraindications

• According to Dr. Rick Kulkarni, on the website eMedicine, there are no contraindications to applying a splint, but very serious injuries such as complicated or open fractures should be seen immediately by a specialist.