For use when the towel roll is ineffective in positioning.
To assist in the positioning of the patients neck into neutral with slight extension, thereby decreasing the risk of contracture.
- Position the patients neck into neutral.
- Apply collar with opening in the back.
- Fasten Velcro strap.
Splint should be worn both pre and post grafting.
(STSG and Integra). Wear time is up to 20 hours per day as tolerated, with hour rests every three hours. (Rests are optional if patient can tolerate prolonged wear.) Ideally the collar should be worn whenever the patient is in bed. After cervical grafting the collar should be worn at all times for five days.
Make certain that the collar does not slip over the chin onto the face and mouth. (A smaller collar may be necessary.) Monitor for skin maceration, should this occur a towel can be placed around the collar. NO PILLOWS.