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Buddy tape splint
From WikEM
Background
- Utilize adjacent digits to stabilize fractured digit and maintain anatomically functional position during healing
- Should remain in place until patient can move digit through full range of motion without pain
Indication
- Finger sprain, particularly of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint.
- Stable, non-displaced, minor finger and toe fractures
Procedure
- Assess distal pulse, motor, and sensation
- Place soft padding such as gauze between digits (optional)
- Using tape, secure fractured digit to adjacent digit, preferably at multiple points
- Reassess pulse, motor, and sensation
Complications
- Skin necrosis
- Loss of fixation
- Limited joint motion
- Infection
