Inclusion Criteria – All closed neurovascular intact adult humeral shaft fractures
Exclusion Criteria – Intra-articular fractures of either the proximal or distal humerus, and surgical neck of humerus.
| Size | TP-6401(normal) Length (cm) | TP-6402(short) Length (cm) | Humeral Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 27.5 | 22.5 | 22.5 – 26 |
| 2 | 29.5 | 24.5 | 26 – 29.5 |
| 3 | 32 | 27 | 29.5 – 33 |
| 4 | 33 | 28 | 33 – 36.5 |
| 5 | 35 | 30 | 36.5 – 40 |
Packet contains black humeral brace and blue sling. Size is based on mid humeral circumference and brace length, as per chart.
The hypoallergenic fabric casing holds two plastic shells – the inner shell should be removed and trimmed if concerns of pressure to inner elbow BEFORE applying the brace to the patient (either measure or try opposite arm).
Lengthen the chest strap as long as possible and unclip the clip that will be fastened behind the patient.
Crocodile Velcro fasteners are on the end of each strap.
In order to stretch the brace to make it easier to apply, curl the crocodile fastener back on each adjustment strap and place your hands in the brace to stretch it out.
Place underneath clothing so that the patient does not attempt to remove it at home. Encourage the patient to drop the affected arm down by their side and glide the brace up the arm. If there’s a lot of resistance, a change in brace size may be required. Bring the brace up so that the outer shell is covering the shoulder and hold in place.
Holding the brace in position, clip the chest strap around the body. Ensuring it is over the chest and not beneath breast tissue. Tighten the chest strap by using the crocodile fastener. If the crocodile fastener ends up in the axillary area, it may cause friction. Remove the crocodile fastener completely and trim the chest strap so that the fastener ends up on the back.
Use the adjustment straps on the brace to tighten the brace, making sure that opposite straps and pulled at the same time to maintain tension. Both upper and lower adjustment straps must be tightened
Towelled side of the sling to skin, attach to the posterior aspect of the brace and bring over the opposite shoulder.
Bring the elbow of the braced arm to 90 degrees flexion and rest in the sling using the Velcro to attach the sling to itself. The wrist must be resting in the sling, not the forearm, to prevent wrist drop.
