The vacuum splint: an aid in emergency splinting of fractures

The vacuum splint has been shown to be a simple, safe and effective method of emergency splinting of fractured extremities. The splint is simply constructed from clear vinyl sheeting and contains 2-mm. expanded polystyrene balls. Evacuation of air causes the splint to become rigid, thereby providing stability and immobilization of the limb. The splint is radiolucent, containing no obstructive metal components that would interfere with the radiographic appearance of the injured limb. The ease of application of this splint makes it especially effective for the emergency splinting of fractures in children.