Static thenar web spacer splint feature: which statement is correct?

• A. Excludes any web space protection.
• B. Involves a C-bar to protect the web space from contractures.
• C. Typically used to immobilize the thumb entirely.
• D. Involves a plate for carpal stabilization.

Answer: (B)

Maintaining the first web space and keeping the thumb in abduction to prevent contractures is what this splint does. A static thenar web spacer splint is designed to hold the thumb away from the index finger, protecting the web space especially after injuries or burns that can cause web-space or thenar contractures. The C-bar component runs along the palm and helps keep that web space open by supporting the thenar region and maintaining the thumb in a abducted position, which prevents the adductor pull that would narrow the web space. Because it’s static, it holds the thumb in a fixed position rather than moving it dynamically, so it’s not meant to immobilize the entire thumb. It also doesn’t involve a plate for carpal stabilization, which is more than this splint aims to address.