For operative radial nerve injury, what is the initial splint position?

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Multiple Choice

For operative radial nerve injury, what is the initial splint position?

After radial nerve repair, protecting the repaired extensor mechanism is the priority. Positioning the wrist in about 30 degrees of extension in a static splint provides that protection by placing the wrist in extension, which reduces tension on the healing extensor tendons while still allowing finger movement as healing progresses. This helps prevent flexion contractures and optimizes the length-tension relationship of the extensors for later rehab. The other options don’t offer the same targeted protection: a short arm cast with the elbow extended doesn’t specifically guard the repaired wrist extensors, no splinting risks contracture and Improper healing, and a functional splint intended for daily activities is typically used later, once initial immobilization is complete.

After radial nerve repair, protecting the repaired extensor mechanism is the priority. Positioning the wrist in about 30 degrees of extension in a static splint provides that protection by placing the wrist in extension, which reduces tension on the healing extensor tendons while still allowing finger movement as healing progresses. This helps prevent flexion contractures and optimizes the length-tension relationship of the extensors for later rehab.

The other options don’t offer the same targeted protection: a short arm cast with the elbow extended doesn’t specifically guard the repaired wrist extensors, no splinting risks contracture and Improper healing, and a functional splint intended for daily activities is typically used later, once initial immobilization is complete.

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