A novel and effortless technique for application of lower limb backslabs

Abstract

Backslabs are used widely throughout trauma and orthopaedic practice and its some of its sister specialties. Amongst their functions, backslabs are used to great effect for soft tissue trauma and fracture care as they accommodate for swelling [1,2]. Applying lower limb backslabs with wet plaster, in an acute setting with untrained personnel can be challenging. Traditional teaching of backslab application involves the assembly of two or three large pieces of plaster (the medial and lateral walls ‘‘u’’ and posterior slab ‘‘j’’) around the posterior, medial and lateral aspects of the leg [3]. The traditional technique requires dexterity from both clinician and the assistant(s). An ill-timed procedure can result in the plaster setting early and compromise of the limb or fracture position prepared for immobilisation. This may be especially frustrating in cases where fracture manipulation has been performed under anaesthetic. Possible solutions include split casts or application of plaster on a prone limb. We describe a novel, user-friendly technique for applying an effective lower limb backslab.