Q.  Why do vacuum splints immobilize better than air splints, padded board splints, or other types of traditional splints?

A.  Vacuum splints conform to the exact shape of the injury site, thus providing excellent support without applying unnecessary circumferential pressure. This eliminates the potential for compartment syndrome, unnecessary pressure sores, or impairing circulation to the injured area. Sensory function remains intact, yet the injured area is immobilized properly to prevent further injury and reduce pain.

Q.  Is it true that vacuum splints can be used on angulated fractures, as well as, in-line fractures?

A.   Versatility and adaptability are what set vacuum splints apart from other splints. Because vacuum splints are soft and pliable before application, they can mold to any configuration that is possible. Vacuum splints can be used for leg fractures, dislocated shoulders, knee injuries, wrist fractures, infant, and pediatric immobilization, hip support, padding under the knees, temporary cervical support, etc. Even in cases involving open wounds, you can still use a vacuum splint because it molds around the area that is being splinted. With vacuum splints you don't have to struggle with cumbersome configurations of board splints, or waste precious time to carefully bend and shape a wire ladder splint.  The use of vacuum splints is only limited by the creativity of the rescuer.

Q. What about working with vacuum splints in extremely cold or very hot weather?

A.  The outer shells of the EVAC-U-SPLINT and FASPLINT are composed of special blends of reinforced nylon and vinyl that are abrasion resistant, yet flexible down to -30° F.  This makes them ideal for working in different temperature extremes.  The internal chamber of a vacuum splint contains thousands of small polystyrene beads that act as excellent thermal insulators. This design feature renders vacuum splints ideal for use with elderly, pediatric and cold climate rescue patients, as this population tends to lose their body heat faster than average.  You'll also find that with vacuum splints the patient doesn't complain about the splint being too cold or too hot.  In cases of extreme hot weather, a thin sheet may be placed on the surface of the splint to help absorb the patient's sweat.

Q.  How long does it take to evacuate a vacuum splint?

A.  The actual evacuation time will depend on how fast the person operates the pump and what your actual geographical location is when applying the splints.  For example, in most areas of the country, evacuation times for the EVAC-U-SPLINT  and FASPLINT are as follows:

Small Splint                     -         5 seconds

Medium Splint                 -         7 seconds

Large Splint                     -         9 seconds

Pediatric Mattress            -         15 seconds

Full-body Mattress           -        25 seconds

If you pump fast, you can probably cut a few seconds off these times.   If you happen to be in Denver, it may take you a few extra seconds to get the splints fully evacuated.  No matter where you are, the EVAC-U-SPLINT and the FASPLINT will take much less time to apply to a patient than any other traditional method.  You no longer need to struggle with ladder splints, Kerlix and adhesive tape, or padded board splints and cravats.  Simply grab your vacuum splint, place it around the injured area and evacuate.  Secure the straps and you're done!  You can be transporting your patients to the hospital while other rescuers are still bending, forming, and struggling to apply traditional splints.

Q.  Can I use a portable suction unit to evacuate a vacuum splint?

A.  Yes. Remember to have a Portable Suction Adaptor (Model EV 15PSA) when using a portable suction unit with the EVAC-U-SPLINT. When using the FASPLINT, simply apply the connection from your suction source to the plastic tube housing on the splint valve.  Evacuation time will depend on the battery strength and suction capabilities of your portable suction unit. Hand operated suction units have also been used, but will take longer to evacuate the splint. It's always a good idea to have a manual pump as a back-up, even if you choose to use a portable suction unit. You'll always have two options when facing a call in the field.

Q.  What is the recommended way to clean a vacuum splint?

A.  Constructed of laminated nylon and vinyl, the EVAC-U-SPLINT and FASPLINT are easily cleaned with soap and water, as well as any commercially available disinfectant.   A bleach solution, concentrated as per CDC guidelines, can be used without harming the material.  Always follow your local Medical Director's prescribed protocols when cleaning and disinfecting your splints.  NOTE:  The EVAC-U-SPLINT can also be washed in a commercial-grade, front-loading washing machine, with no agitator.  Just make sure to lock the valves in the closed position prior to placing the EVAC-U-SPLINT in the washer.  Simply towel dry, then hang to air dry for an hour or so.

Q.  Won't water get inside the vacuum splint?

A.  Water, blood, or any other body fluid won't be able to get inside the vacuum splint, because it is a totally sealed chamber.  The material is either vinyl or a vinyl and nylon blend that does not allow any air in or out.  Water molecules are larger than air molecules, so you don't have to worry about fluids passing through the material.  Whenever splints are used around water, make sure the valves are locked in their closed position.   This eliminates the potential for any fluid entering the splint through the valve.

Q.  Don't vacuum splints get holes in them just like air splints?

A.  Air splints are made of clear vinyl material and in many cases are folded for storage. Because the vinyl material has no scrim or any other supporting fabric, it is much more prone to puncture.  Every time an air splint is folded it develops a corner that is susceptible to cracking.  The EVAC-U-SPLINT is composed of a vinyl/nylon blend, and the FASPLINT is made from an abrasion-resistant vinyl, both of which are many times more durable and flexible than materials found on air splints.  This extends the life of both products even under the wear and tear of regular use, cleaning & maintenance, and storage.

Q.  If I do get a hole in my vacuum splint, how do I repair it?

A. The FASPLINT is a semi-disposable device which should be discarded and replaced.  The EVAC-U-SPLINT can be repaired by simply placing some vinyl glue on the hole and pulling a slight vacuum to draw just a little bit of the glue into the splint.  The vacuum is then released, and the repaired area is allowed to dry overnight. If for some reason the EVAC-U-SPLINT is damaged during use, simply place a piece of non-porous adhesive tape over the hole until you can repair the splint properly.  Because air is being drawn into the splint at the damaged area, the tape will hold without any problem until further repairs can be made.   For larger tears, up to 1", we offer a repair kit with vinyl patches, free of charge to any Hartwell Medical customer.

Q.  How long can I expect a vacuum splint to last before it wears out and has to be replaced?

A.  Vacuum technology is not new.  In Europe, vacuum splinting is the most popular method of immobilization.  Vacuum splints have been used in Europe for the past 30 years.  The EVAC-U-SPLINT fabric material is extremely durable and will last almost indefinitely if taken care of properly.  You should expect the EVAC-U-SPLINT to last 5 to 10 years under normal conditions.  As with any EMS product, excessive use or abuse will shorten the lifespan of the product.  It is always a good policy to inspect your vacuum splints periodically during the year and after each use, just before placing them back in their carry case.  This will guarantee that your EVAC-U-SPLINTs are always ready to be used on the very next call.