Silon-LTS – Low Temperature Silicone Thermoplastic Splinting – a New Option for Addressing Scars and Orthotics in One Design.
by Jonathan Niszczak, MS, OTR/L, BT-C
Handling scars and effectively fitting orthotics together often require a combined approach for the hand therapist. Conventional treatment includes the use of a low temperature thermoplastic to fit the needs of the treatment indication as well as the unique needs of the patient themselves. With this, the therapist should also consider the scar that may be part of the diagnosis – including hand and wrist fractures, dupuytren’s contracture and other traumatic surgeries involving the hand and upper extremity. Adding a thicker silicone gel sheet into the orthotic requires a modification of the design and this can allow for migration of the silicone within and undoubtedly compromise fit.
Silicone Thermoplastic Splinting
A new material has been developed that combines both these needs in one design. Silon-LTS is a patented silicone technology boned to a conventional low temperature thermoplastic. The thermoplastic has good memory and can be used for static progressive indications as well as almost any orthotic need. This combination allows for the hand therapist to target both the splint design and the needs of the scars in one platform. Fabricating and forming the orthotic follows the normal protocols with one caveat – the orthotic is formed directly onto the skin without an interface. This allows for two important considerations – directly getting the silicone to the scar and allowing the silicone to support the function and design of the orthotic indications.
Use Cases
One example where this material shines is in palmer scar issues like dupuytren’s releases and palmer scar issues like burns or other trauma. In these cases, the orthotic needs to fit firmly to the skin to contact the scar for softening and flattening as well as stretch the potential flexion issues of the digits. In this case, the silicone inside the splint softens the scar; gently hydrates the skin and most importantly counteracts migration due to the silicone contact layer. In pediatrics, this is often an essential aspect of orthotic design as they are like “Houdini” – in the way they get their hands out of the orthotic. Also, this silicone layer is great for making humeral fracture bracing – providing a gentle contact to the skin and scar to support the contact for the suspension design.
Silon-LTS is a great option for anywhere you need to address silicone scar management and orthotic needs in one simple, flawless design. Simple finger extension splints; mallet finger; or any orthotic that combines position and scar management – you need to give Silon-LTS a try.
Still, have questions about LThermoplastic Splinting? Contact us now and speak with a dedicated specialist today.