Splinting the pediatric Palmar burn.

Children younger than 4 years of age who have sustained deep palmar burns pose a significant challenge to the burn care team. Flexion contractures of the palm and digits are all too common because the hand is maintained in flexion when at rest and while engaged in functional activities. A splint that positions the wrist in extension and the metacarpophalangeal joints of digits 2 to 5 in some hyperextension was evaluated. Nine patients with acute burns and two patients who required palmar reconstruction were studied. (The total number of hands was 15.) With this splinting technique, we have successfully maintained the antideformity position in patients with acute injuries and in those who have undergone reconstructive procedures.