Tips Pasang Gips: Boxer's Fracture

Summary

This video tutorial demonstrates how to apply a cast for a Boxer’s Fracture, specifically for fractures in the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones. The process includes preparing templates, adding padding, applying the cast, and ensuring proper hand positioning at a 30-degree angle for the wrist and 135 degrees for the metacarpophalangeal joints. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of checking neurovascular status post-application. Additionally, it introduces the Alum Medika platform for medical students, offering up-to-date health articles, real case studies, and forums for peer discussions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Boxer’s Fracture involves fractures of the 4th or 5th metacarpal, often caused by punching something with a clenched fist.
• 😀 Immobilization of the hand is crucial for treatment, and a cast is used to secure the bones in proper alignment.
• 😀 The cast preparation includes creating two templates: one large for the hand and one small to secure the 4th and 5th fingers.
• 😀 The smaller template is rectangular and should extend from the middle of the palm to beyond the first joint of the affected fingers.
• 😀 Trim the edges of the small template to avoid causing discomfort to the patient.
• 😀 Padding should be placed between the 4th and 5th fingers before applying the cast to ensure patient comfort.
• 😀 Start padding from the fingers and extend it up to the forearm, covering the entire area evenly.
• 😀 The cast material should be soaked before applying it over the templates to secure the hand in place.
• 😀 The wrist should be positioned at a 30-degree angle, and the metacarpophalangeal joints should be at approximately 135 degrees to ensure proper alignment.
• 😀 It is essential to check the neurovascular status of the patient’s hand to ensure no issues with circulation or nerve function.
• 😀 *Al Medika* is a platform for medical students offering up-to-date articles, real case studies, and discussion forums to enhance learning.

Q & A

What is a Boxer’s Fracture, and how does it typically occur?

A Boxer’s Fracture is a fracture of the 4th or 5th metacarpal bone, typically caused by striking an object with a clenched fist. The fracture often happens when the hand makes contact in a punching motion.

What are the steps involved in preparing a gypsum (cast) template for a Boxer’s Fracture?

The process begins by creating a large template for the hand and a smaller template for added fixation. The large template is shaped as a basic hand cast, and a smaller rectangular plaster template is added to provide extra support for the 4th and 5th fingers.

Why is it important to adjust the cast template to avoid discomfort for the patient?

It is crucial to adjust the edges of the cast template to prevent it from poking or causing irritation to the patient’s fingers, ensuring comfort during the healing process.

How is padding applied to the cast, and why is it important?

Padding is applied between the 4th and 5th fingers to avoid pressure points and then around the hand and forearm. This ensures the patient’s comfort and helps prevent skin irritation under the cast.

What role does the 30-degree wrist angle and 135-degree metacarpophalangeal joint angle play in the casting process?

The wrist is set at a 30-degree angle, and the metacarpophalangeal joints (where the fingers meet the hand) are positioned at about 135 degrees. This positioning is essential for ensuring proper alignment and healing of the fracture.

What should be done after the cast is applied to ensure the patient’s health?

After applying the cast, it is essential to check the neurovascular status of the patient to ensure that there is no loss of circulation or nerve damage, which can be a risk with improper casting.

What are the key benefits of using the Alumedika platform for medical students?

Alumedika provides a platform with up-to-date medical articles, disease information, drugs, and medical journals. It also offers real-case learning opportunities and discussion forums for medical students to collaborate and share insights.

How does Alumedika support students learning about real medical cases?

Alumedika allows medical students to engage with real-life cases through the platform, providing them with an opportunity to discuss cases and learn practical aspects of medicine from experienced professionals.

What precautions should be taken when applying a cast to ensure patient safety and comfort?

When applying the cast, make sure that the position is correct (wrist at 30 degrees and metacarpophalangeal joints at 135 degrees), the padding is adequately placed, and the cast is checked regularly for pressure points. Neurovascular checks are also essential to ensure there is no circulation or nerve issue.

What are the advantages of using a cast for treating a Boxer’s Fracture?

A cast provides immobilization, which is critical for the healing process of a fracture like the Boxer’s Fracture. It supports the bone in the correct position, prevents further injury, and helps reduce pain during recovery.