Paediatric Intravenous Splint: A Cause of Pressure Injury during Neurosurgery in Prone Position

Pediatr Neurosurg. 2016;51(1):55-6. doi: 10.1159/000441062. Epub 2015 Nov 18.

Abstract

Splint application avoids unwanted movement of limbs and kinking of intravenous catheters in infants, allowing free flow of intravenous fluids. However, if placed in contact with dependent surfaces during prone surgeries, they have the propensity to cause inadvertent pressure injuries. This occurs due to the weight of the limb and continuous friction and is augmented by a rise in the local temperature and perspiration. We wish to share our experience of such an unintentional injury caused by a paediatric intravenous splint.

MeSH terms

  • Friction
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infusions, Intravenous / methods
  • Lumbosacral Region
  • Meningocele* / surgery
  • Neurosurgical Procedures*
  • Pressure Ulcer* / etiology
  • Prone Position
  • Splints* / adverse effects