The Reel Splint: experience with a new traction splint apparatus in the prehospital setting.

A new lower extremity splint apparatus was applied by paramedics to 50 patients in the prehospital setting to manage a total of 60 injuries. The Reel Splint was designed to provide stabilization with or without traction to a variety of angulated lower extremity fractures/dislocations. In 37 instances (74%), the splint was judged by the rescuers to be superior to the standard Thomas splint. In this series the splint was used successfully for extrication , to immobilize deformed limbs, and to provide traction for the restoration and maintenance of peripheral circulation, with frequent pain relief. No deleterious functional complexities or manufacturing defects were identified. The Reel Splint is a uniquely useful alternative to currently available splints.