Types of Bandages

1) Splint - Molded to only one aspect of the limb typically.

2) Cast - Tubular structure molded to fit all specific aspects of an individual limb (e.g. thermo moldable - (Xlite®) Kirshner; veterinary thermoplastic - (VTP®) Imex; fiberglass - activated by immersion in water).
-Must pad appropriately to avoid pressure sores.
-Immobilize joint above and below is ideal.

3) Spica Splint - Spica refers to figure of "8", the bandage which attaches to the body. Foreleg is most often used to immobilize shoulder, humerus and elbow. Shorter modifications can be utilized to immobilize from axilla (or groin) to distal limb.

4) Schroeder Thomas Splint - Largely replaced by molded casts. Never use for femoral fractures as it can act as a fulcrum at the fracture site. Primary uses were for immobilizing elbow, stifle, carpus and tarsus.

5) Mason Meta Splints - Either plastic or metal, useful for temporary immobilization prior to definitive stabilization of fractures. Also useful for short term stabilization in wounds. Molded casts provide better immobilization and fewer soft tissue problems for definitive fracture management.

6) Velpeau Sling - Utilized for shoulder and scapular fractures and injuries. Can also be utilized to prevent weight bearing on the foreleg in more distal injuries.

7) Carpal Flexion Bandage - Is a distal limb modification of this sling.

8) Ehmer Sling - Figure of "8" bandage on the rear limb. Used to immobilize the hip and to prevent weight bearing on rear leg.

9) Robert Jones Bandage ("pumpkin splint") - Used to immobilize limb distal to elbow or stifle and to help control edema. Generally short term. Heavy layer of padding (cotton) compressed by a layer of outer elastic material.
 

-JoAnne M. Roesner, DVM, Diplomate, American Board of Veterinary Practitioners