Final answer:
For phalanx fractures and tendon repairs, various splints such as stack, buddy, and dorsal aluminum splints are used depending on the injury. Splints help immobilize and protect the injured area to ensure proper healing. The specific phalanx bones affected and their joints play a pivotal role in selecting the correct splint.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of splint used for phalanx fractures and tendon repairs of fingers varies depending on the specific needs of the injury. However, commonly used splints for these types of injuries include the stack splint for distal phalanx fractures, the buddy splint for stabilization of a fractured finger by securing it to an adjacent finger, and the dorsal aluminum splint for various finger fractures and tendon repairs. It's important to immobilize the injured area to allow for proper healing and to prevent further injury. The choice of splint also depends on which phalanges are injured; as noted, different fingers contain different numbers and types of phalanx bones which are critical in determining the appropriate treatment modality.
Phalanges are the bones constituting the fingers and thumb, with the thumb featuring two phalanges (a proximal and a distal phalanx) and the fingers having three (proximal, middle, and distal). Correctly identifying these bones and their joints, such as the interphalangeal joint, is essential in treating fractures and ensuring effective healing. Similarly, knowledge of the metacarpal bones and their articulation with the proximal phalanges at the metacarpophalangeal joint is important in understanding hand anatomy and the impact of splinting on hand mechanics during gripping or movement.