Orthoplast™ is a material which is designed for use in splinting. This material can be used in a number of different ways in medical settings for things like temporary splints and braces, corrective bracing devices, and supportive braces. Doctors use Orthoplast™ to make custom-fitted braces which will provide comfort and support without injuring the body by forcing it into an uncomfortable or impractical position.
This product is a type of thermoplastic. When Orthoplast™ is shipped to doctors, it comes in flat sheets of material. The doctor can cut a piece of the sheet and then heat it. When heated, the Orthoplast™ becomes malleable, with an almost rubbery texture, and it can be molded around the area being braced or splinted. As it cools, it hardens, and a brace which fits perfectly has been created.
Orthoplast™ comes in perforated versions to allow air circulation as well as plain sheets, and it is usually white. It is often recommended that padding be used under the brace to distribute pressure, prevent sores, and increase patient comfort. Orthoplast™ also has to be filed once it is fitted so that sharp edges do not gouge the patient. It can be attached to tapes, rods, rivets, and other devices which can be used to fix it in place.
One advantage to Orthoplast™ is that it can be used to make a custom brace of any size. A doctor may use it to make a brace for treating someone with scoliosis, for example, in which a large sheet would be needed to cover the back. It can also be used for things like creating custom lightweight splints for injured fingers.
An orthopedic surgeon may utilize Orthoplast™ as part of a cast, or for bracing when a patient is out of a cast and additional support is still required. It can also be used in the management of stress and strain, and for corrective bracing which is designed to address issues such as poor posture or abnormal growth patterns. It is important that fitting of Orthoplast™ be supervised by a doctor who can confirm that the fit is correct and who can minimize the risk of injury to the patient. Because it is necessary to warm the plastic up in order to fit it, doctors who work with Orthoplast™ also need a device which can be used for heating the plastic up to a safe but functional temperature.