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Volume 23, Issue 3, Pages 249-260 (July 2010)


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Patient Experience of Distraction Splinting for Complex Finger Fracture Dislocations

Lisa O'Brien, Master Clinical Science (Hand & Upper Limb Rehabilitation), Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy)Corresponding Author Informationemail address

Scott Presnell, PhD, Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy)

published online 19 April 2010.

Abstract 

The study design is qualitative phenomenological and grounded theory. Intraarticular fractures of the finger joints can severely limit function due to stiffness and pain. Distraction with early movement is thought to deliver the best results and this has been used to treat these types of injuries at The Alfred Hospital for eight years. Qualitative data from patient interviews were used to describe patients' own experiences of treatment with distraction splinting and identify key issues in patient adherence. The key finding was a disconnect between perceived complexity of injury and treatment. Those who adhered with the treatment regime felt that they were well informed of the reasoning behind it. The hand surgery and therapy team must be aware of the patient experience of complex finger injuries and should ensure patients are well supported with education about their injury and treatment. Early preemptive pain control may help optimize adherence to the splint and exercise regime. Findings can be applied to other acute conditions requiring cumbersome splinting and potentially uncomfortable early exercise routines.

Department of Occupational Therapy, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia

Monash University, Melbourne, Australia

Department of Occupational Therapy, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia

LaTrobe University, Melbourne, Australia

Corresponding Author InformationCorrespondence and reprint requests to Lisa O'Brien, PhD, candidate Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy), Monash University, PO Box 527, Frankston, VIC 3199, Australia

 Funded by the Victorian Occupational Therapy Trust Research Grant.

 I certify that no party having a direct interest in the results of the research supporting this article has or will confer a benefit on myself or on any organization with which I am associated.

PII: S0894-1130(10)00016-5

doi:10.1016/j.jht.2010.01.002


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