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Medical bone plates, especially rib fixation plates, are commonly used external fixation devices in fracture treatment, used to fix and protect the fracture site and promote fracture healing. The following is the general usage method of medical bone plates, especially the specific usage steps of rib fixation plates:
First, preparations before use
Evaluate the patient’s condition:
The doctor first assesses the patient’s condition to determine whether medical bone plates, especially rib fixation plates, are needed.
Select the appropriate bone plate:
Select the appropriate fixation product according to the type of injury of the patient. For example, patients with closed injuries can use medical rib fixation plate alloy to reinforce the preoperative type product, while patients with open injuries can use alloy to reinforce the postoperative type product.
Clean the skin
Before use, it is essential to ensure that the skin at the pasting area is clean and dry, and to avoid any residue of oil, sweat, etc. Medical alcohol can be used to clean and disinfect the adhesive area.
Prepare the bone plate:
Open the package and take out the rib fixing splint and the special fixing tape.
According to the shape of the patient’s chest and the curvature Angle of the ribs, the bone plates are bent by hand to make them closely conform to the contour of the ribs.
Second, usage steps
Pasting bone plates
Tear off the release paper in the middle of the bone plate.
With the patient standing on their hips and inhaling, the bone plates are adhered along the rib direction towards the cleaned affected area.
Press the bone plate tightly to ensure it adheres closely to the skin without bubbles or wrinkles.
Fixed bone plate
Tear off the ring-shaped release paper on the outer frame around the bone plate.
Lay the waterproof membrane evenly along the edge of the bone plate and press it tightly to ensure that the bone plate is flat and adheres to the skin.
Fix the bone plates to the thoracic cage using special fixing straps. The fixation belt should be fastened tightly, but not too tightly, so as not to affect the patient’s breathing and comfort.
Adjust position
Adjust the position and Angle of the bone plate as needed to ensure that it can provide the best support and stability.
Third, precautions after use
Avoid vigorous exercise:
During the period of wearing bone plates, patients should avoid strenuous exercise or excessive force to prevent affecting the healing of fractures.
Regular inspection and replacement:
Regularly check whether the bone plates are displaced or damaged to ensure the fixation effect.
If allergic reactions or discomfort are observed, use should be stopped immediately.
For disposable bone plates, such as alloy-reinforced preoperative rib fixation plates, new bone plates should be replaced after the expiration of their service life.
Operations during bathing:
When using the rib fixing plate, if you need to take a bath, you should first remove the fixing band. After taking a bath, wipe the splint clean and then fasten the fixing band tightly.
When the outer covering film is damaged, do not take a bath to avoid moisture inside the splint causing it to fall off.
Rehabilitation exercise
Under the guidance of a doctor, carry out appropriate rehabilitation exercises to promote the healing of fractures and the recovery of functions.
Fourth, handling of special circumstances
Wound care
For patients with open injuries, the wounds should be cleaned, disinfected and dressings changed before applying bone plates, and sterile dressings should be applied.
Allergy management:
If a patient is found to be allergic to the bone plate or fixation band, their use should be immediately stopped and anti-allergy treatment should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.
Complication management:
If complications such as infection and breathing difficulties occur, medical treatment should be sought promptly.
Fifth, post-use handling
Destroy disposable products
Disposable medical bone plate products after use should be destroyed in accordance with the relevant regulations on medical waste treatment.
Properly store reusable products:
Reusable bone plates or fixation bands should be properly stored for subsequent use.